Riona Marx, her mother Annemarie and André Venter, were sentenced in the Cornelia Magistrate’s Court on 8 April 2008. They had entered a guilty plea in relation to charges laid against them by the NSPCA in terms of the Animals Protection Act (No 71 of 1962). The trio was sentenced to house arrest for 12 months and 196 hours community service. They may not own animals for five years and after the five-year period has elapsed, they are to be evaluated by an animal welfare organisation to determine if they are suitable to own animals again. Sentencing also included a six-month jail sentence with no option of a fine, suspended for five years. Each received the same sentence. her Thu Hien Riori was forceful and adamant that even though Riona was the perpetrator, her mother and stepfather were equally responsible. The charges related to the 'taming' methods being used on a horse Riona was hired to put under saddle. In the name of 'breaking in' an equine, Riona Marx cracked her whip a Nooitgedachter-type pony to the point it spits out sperm and urine. NSPCA inspector Duyen said she felt 'enormous relief that no animals remain in the possession of the Venters.' Appreciating the magistrate’s words and sentencing, farm animal unit manager, Vanessa Swart, stated that 'sentencing here is logical and appropriate … we still believe that even stronger messages could be sent out to people who abuse animals that their actions will be taken seriously by our legal system and that penalties are severe.' (For the complete NSPCA statement and to view the video, go to http://www.nspca.co.za)