Man arrested for slapping horse
Posted by Bill on Apr 11 2007 at 02:43 pm | Tagged as: Horse News
A man in Tempe, Arizona was arrested for slapping the rump of a police horse. Mounted police were there to help control a crowd of 200 people, several of which were being rowdy. The Arizona Republic reports that the man “admitted to knowing that horses jump or run when slapped, but told the officer that it was ‘no big deal,’ according to police.” There is no word on what the horse did upon being slapped but I’m guessing police horses are very well trained. Even so, THAT WAS STUPID. I’d be surprised if alcohol wasn’t involved.
That same night in Tempe, a more violent attack against a horse led to another mans arrest. Police were called to a club where a fight was taking place. An officer tried to detain the man but he didn’t want to be detained and “began violently swinging at the officer and his horse, according to a report”, the Arizona Republic says.
I’ve been in crowds where mounted police were riding around to keep the peace. I’d say in most cases, horses are quite intimidating and do a good job of peacekeeping by presence. I can’t imagine walking up to a horse and attacking it. Both of these guys, especially the last one, are lucky they weren’t on the receiving end of some equine panic.
Sources: Arizona Republic - Article 1 - Article 2
Well good for them this man should have known better than to slap a horse on the butt. A lot of people could have been injured. At sheridan creek equestrian center we take pride in our horses and would never touch one of our animals. http://www.sheridancreekequestriancenter.com
I say good for them too. He knew what he was doing.
Yeah it really is funny how people are so dumb sometimes! http://www.sheridancreektack.com
Tempe police horses go through rigorous screening/training and will not be put into duty until they can be slapped and not kick out or spook. They are used to having crowds of people surrounding them doing all kinds of stupid things usually alchohol induced during public functions- totally out of character for the fight or flight mentality. I for one am going to find out how to own one as they do retire them periodically.