Walking Horse trainer Jackie L. McConnell, 60, filed a notice in federal court on May 8, 2012 announcing his intention to plead guilty to one charge of conspiracy to violate the Horse Protection Act.  McConnell, along with Jeff Dockery, Joseph Abernathy and John Mays were charged in a 52-count indictment with violations of the Horse Protection Act.

The notice stated that federal prosecutors intend to move for dismissal of all remaining charges in the 52-count indictment.  McConnell executed a written plea agreement that has been agreed to by both sides in the case.

McConnell is set to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge William B. Mitchell Carter for his change of plea hearing on May 22, 2012.