GUILFORD – The co-founder of a Guilford horse rescue is facing allegations that she defrauded donors and failed to properly care for her animals.

Stephanie M. Algiere-Hanchett, 28, Guilford, was arrested Wednesday by the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office. She is charged with first degree scheme to defraud and animal cruelty in connection with A Ton of Love Draft Horse Rescue, which she co-founded with her aunt, Susan Beach, in 2010.

According to the group’s website, www.atonoflove.org, the rescue is located on Miller Road in Guilford, on property owned by Hanchett’s parents, Lisa and Michael Algiere. The group’s non-profit status is currently pending.