The horse photos:
Most definitely from a prison. There are programs for retired race horses in VA. Those about to be released are sometimes used on the farm to take care of the horses, and get the prisoner accustomed to bonding, and ready for release. Earlier in this case, I posted newspaper articles about the program.
Boarding a horse is expensive. Their tack is expensive. Their care is expensive. Tatum was living in section 8 housing. While it appears he had money from somewhere, he wasn't paying his rent. I've never gotten govt money so not sure how it's handled. Why doesn't the money go straight to the landlords?? No idea, but apparently it doesn't if the Tatums didn't pay their rent. Still no idea where Mrs. Tatum worked. But again, we look at the housing and can see their verified income wasn't high, or they wouldn't have qualified for Section 8.
Those that board their horses expect good care, and good people working with their horses. Even in my small area, background checks and word of mouth go a long way. Without good references from the vets, and other horse folks, you won't be working on their farm. I know of only one farm that hoards and breeds horses (last check they had almost 100 horses) that locals know about, and avoid. Vets know about them, animal control, etc. There's been numerous attempts to shut them down. They let anyone on the farm to work, but you aren't paid!!
Now if you own your own land, having a horse is a bit different, but we've nothing with the Tatums to indicate they own land, or horses.
Posing beside a rock star does not make one a rock star.
