Sheriff's deputies in north-central Washington's Okanogan County have removed eight horses from a field after determining the animals were not being fed.

Sheriff Frank Rogers says the Gig Harbor man who owns the horses told authorities he had asked his son in Tonasket to care for them. Deputies were unable to reach the son.

The sheriff says neighbors first complained last month that the horses were not being cared for. Neighbors have been providing some food and water.

The Wenatchee World says ( http://is.gd/YFAQ9q) Rogers reports the animals had no food or water when deputies arrived Tuesday. Some horses had cuts and one had an injured leg.

The sheriff said the horses were taken to a nearby ranch and will be checked by a vet. Sheriff's officers will forward their case report to the prosecutor.

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Information from: The Wenatchee World, http://www.wenatcheeworld.com