Kurt Zouma and his brother Yoan charged under animal protection law after West Ham defender was filmed slapping and kicking a cat
Kurt Zouma and his brother Yoan have been charged under the Animal Welfare Act, the RSPCA has announced.
The West Ham defender has been widely condemned after a video, filmed by Yoan, emerged showing him slapping and kicking his cat.
Zouma’s pet cats have been seized by the RSPCA, while West Ham have fined their player £250,000.
Yoan Zouma’s club suspended him last month after he said he was responsible for filming the incident, and said in a club statement released earlier on Wednesday afternoon that he had been charged.
However, the RSPCA has revealed it will be prosecuting him and his brother for their roles in the incident.
A statement read: “After a full and thorough investigation, we have begun the process of bringing charges against Kurt Zouma and Yoan Zouma under the Animal Welfare Act.
“Both cats continue to be in the care of the RSPCA. We will be able to release more information once a court date is confirmed.
West Ham went on to face Zouma, 27, who has made five of his six Premier League appearances since the incident.
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West Ham boss David Moyes said he understood the criticism he faced for continuing to select the France international, admitting what the player did was “terrible”.
Meanwhile, Dagenham and Redbridge say their defender, 23, would now be available to play for them after his period of suspension.
“Since the allegation, and while investigations are ongoing, Dagenham & Redbridge FC have made the decision that Yoan should not play football for the club,” a statement read.
“Four weeks have now passed since the incident, and the club believes that any further suspension from the squad would be detrimental to both the club and Yoan. A decision has therefore been taken to make Yoan available to play.
“The club reserves the right to take further action if deemed necessary after the conclusion of the legal proceedings.”
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