‘He ought to be ashamed of himself’: protestor jailed for hitting police horse

A protestor who hit a police horse “ought to be ashamed of himself” – and has been despatched to jail for his actions.

Alexander Warren, 35, was a part of an indication close to the civic centre in Newcastle metropolis centre on 29 August final 12 months. Officers and horses, together with Patronus, from Northumbria Police’s mounted part have been on the scene to observe the crowds.

Newcastle Crown Court docket heard Patronus was “more likely to have felt ache and worry” when Warren hit him.

The 35-year-old, of Daryngton Home, Hartington Highway, London, denied inflicting pointless struggling to an animal however was discovered responsible after a two-day trial in July.

On Friday (4 November) he was jailed for 12 weeks, on the identical court docket.

Superintendent Dave Pickett of Northumbria Police’s operations division, stated: “Our mounted part is an important a part of our policing household and was there to finally defend folks. We won’t tolerate this sort of behaviour underneath any circumstances.

“Warren’s actions have been completely unacceptable and I wish to thank my colleagues who confirmed excellent professionalism and resolve within the face of such pointless hostility.

“Fortunately, since this incident, PH Patronus has acquired loads of affection and love from the general public and is already trying ahead to helping at future public occasions.”

Detective Constable Sarah Wright, the investigating officer, added: “Warren ought to be ashamed of his actions and I’m happy that the severity of his crime has been mirrored on this custodial sentence.

“Our mounted part performs such a key function in serving to to guard folks and preserve our communities protected, so it’s at all times disappointing when incidents like this happen.”

It’s understood that Warren denied any wrongdoing, saying he was there for a peaceable protest and that he didn’t lose his mood or need to trigger Patronus any struggling, including that he has cared for animals and by no means harmed one, and that he felt the horse was being made to dam his path.

You may additionally be fascinated with:

Horse & Hound journal, out each Thursday, is full of all the newest information and stories, in addition to interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and coaching recommendation. Discover how one can take pleasure in the journal delivered to your door each week, plus choices to improve your subscription to entry our on-line service that brings you breaking information and stories in addition to different advantages.