By now, most of the Quarter Horse show industry have heard about the arrest of leading breeder and exhibitor Rita A. Crundwell on Tuesday, April 17. Understandably, many AQHA members who have bred mares to Crundwell’s stallions are concerned about what, if any, impact Crundwell’s arrest will have on obtaining breeder’s certificates or processing any other registration-related documents that may require her signature. Because it is so early in the judicial process, it’s impossible to predict the exact outcomes and how they could potentially impact any business.
While they are dependent upon a number of things — including the outcome of the case, any court orders that are issued and notifications from law enforcement and regulatory agencies – AQHA does have procedures to process registrations at the direction of courts, legal authorities and representatives appointed by them. However, please note that as of April 19, AQHA does not know how Crundwell’s case will impact registrations of her stallions’ foals.
As of April 18, AQHA has not been contacted by authorities handling the case and has not received any court orders associated with horses recorded in Crundwell’s name or her business’ name. If official notices are received, AQHA will proceed in accordance with its standard operating procedures and the orders of legal authorities, which will include assisting our members that are potentially impacted with how to proceed with obtaining any required paperwork.
“Of course, our registration and customer service teams will work with our members who might be impacted by this situation,” said AQHA Executive Vice President Don Treadway Jr. “Naturally, this is a big issue to touch the industry. I think it’s important to remember that legal proceedings take time, and as AQHA receives information, we will work with those people directly affected.”
Not surprisingly, AQHA members have poured out concern for any potential impact this could have on the welfare of the horses involved. AQHA’s first concern is for the well-being and welfare of the horses. According to published reports, Crundwell was released on $4,500 bond April 18. In addition, sources close to the situation indicated horse operations at both Meri-J Ranch and RC Quarter Horses continue to function.
AQHA will continue to monitor developments in the case and provide information as it becomes available.
