West Ham defender Kurt Zouma could be prosecuted by Animal Welfare organisation the RSPCA after videos emerged of him kicking a cat.
The disturbing footage was filmed by Zouma’s brother Yoan last month, while the Hammers star has already been fined two weeks wages by his club, though he was never taken out of the side as punishment. Earlier on Thursday, Yoan – who currently plays for Dagenham & Redbridge – was charged by the RSPCA.
Kurt was dropped by a number of his sponsors including Sportswear giants Adidas. The West Ham defender has been regularly mocked by opposition supporters since the video was uploaded to Snapchat in February, with some fans bringing in inflatable cat toys to poke fan at the Frenchman.
An RSPCA spokesperson confirmed: "Following a thorough investigation, we have started process of bringing a prosecution against Kurt and Yoan Zouma under the Animal Welfare Act. The two cats continue to be cared for by RSPCA. We will release more info once a court date is confirmed."
West Ham responded to the charge with a statement: "‘We are aware of the RSPCA statement in relation to its investigation involving Kurt Zouma. Kurt continues to co-operate fully, supported by the Club. It is our understanding that Kurt’s cats have been checked by a vet, are in good health and have suffered no physical injuries. For legal reasons, neither Kurt or the Club will be making any further comment at this time."
Dagenham & Redbridge released a statement responding to Yoan’s charge earlier in the day: "Whilst Yoan continues to fully co-operate with the RSPCA, as this matter has now progressed further, Dagenham & Redbridge FC feel it is no longer appropriate for either Yoan or the Club to make any further statement.
"Dagenham & Redbridge FC maintain their position in that the Club continues to condemn all animal cruelty.
"Since the allegation, and whilst investigations were taking place, Dagenham & Redbridge FC took the decision that Yoan should not play football for the Club. Four weeks have now elapsed however since the incident, and the Club feels that any further suspension from the team would be detrimental to both the Club and Yoan.
"A decision has been made therefore for Yoan to be available to play. The Club reserves the right to take further action if deemed necessary after conclusion of the Court proceedings."
More than 80,000 people signed an online petition calling for Kurt to be prosecuted. The petition on Change.Org was started by Anti Animal Abuse.
A statement alongside the petition read: "In the UK we have laws against the abuse of animals, laws which should be applicable to everyone rich or poor, famous or not! We ask that the Metropolitan Police and RSPCA carry out an urgent investigation and prosecute the perpetrators of this heinous act."
Yoan was initially taken out of the firing line by his club, but Kurt continued to be selected in the face of the controversy by manager David Moyes. The West Ham boss caused further anger with his explanation.
Moyes later urged for forgiveness for his player, stating: ""A mistake has been made and there are managers with players who have made mistakes. You want to feel there is forgiveness and an apology has been made."
