Where is Maria Borrell?

An arrest warrant has been issued for Maria Borell in Kentucky, according to authorities.

It stems from an animal cruelty investigation that began this month. More than 40 horses were abandoned at a leased Mercer County farm in May.

Borell’s father, Chuck Borell, was arrested by Mercer County deputies Wednesday morning. He is facing 43 counts of animal cruelty.

For a brief moment, and from far away, Maria Borell was racing’s sweetheart. Her story appeared to be a fairy tale. She trained Runhappy to a win at last year’s Breeders’ Cup Sprint.

Many rallied by her side when she was fired the day after her big win by Runhappy’s owner, Jim McIngvale.

Since that time, Maria Borell’s once storybook ending has morphed into a nightmare. News of pre-existing unpaid bills, lawsuits, and allegations of horse abuse have dampened the excitement and support for Maria Borell.

U.S. Racing was the first to break the story about Maria Borell’s various horse care issues and outstanding debts.

Maria Borell allegedly owns or has care, custody, and control over some of the horses currently on the Mercer County property.

Six horses have reportedly been removed from the property by authorities. The horses are being cared for at the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation in Lexington.