Law enforcement authorities in Pennsylvania are seeking whoever entered a Jefferson County barn and attacked three Shetland Ponies residing there.

Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Justin Tkacik said that during the weekend of Sept. 24, the animals’ owner entered the barn containing the ponies and discovered one animal tied to a rope that was hanging from the barn ceiling. The animal was unable to move and had sustained bruises and cuts all over its body. Another pony had also sustained cuts and bruises. A third animal had sustained a cut to its nose. Tkacik said. A search of the barn revealed a plastic pole containing hooks. Police believe the implement was used to beat the ponies.

The ponies survived the incident and will recover from their injuries, Tkacik said.

If caught, those responsible for the incident could face a minimum of second degree misdemeanor animal cruelty charges carrying penalties of up to two years in prison and fines, Tkacik said