SOCORRO - Socorro Police are investigating a case of animal neglect .

Officers found five malnourished horses on a property in Socorro.  The spine, ribs and hips of the underfed horses were clearly visible. 

Socorro Police said the property owner was violating several ordinances, including not having a covered structure for the horses.  There was also no trough for food and water.

Officer Johnny Harrelson said it is important for neighbors to keep watch for malnourished animals, "It's really important because if we don't hear about it you've got these animals out here suffering.  It's not like you're out on patrol and you're in the same spot everyday. I just happened to be coming through here.  I did hear some violations on the corner so I just happened to roll by here and that's when I came across this."

Officers said no one lives on the property.  Police are trying to get a warrant to seize the horses.