SCOTT SPURLING FROM WESTON-SUPER-MARE PUNCHES POLICE HORSE IN THE HEAD DURING DRUNKEN BRAWL

In a disturbing incident that took place in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, Scott Spurling, born around 1995, was involved in a violent altercation outside a local bar in July 2018. During this chaotic scene, Spurling, who was intoxicated at the time, assaulted a police horse named Quantock by delivering a punch directly to its head. The incident did not end there; Spurling also attempted to strike a police officer, PC Mark Hodder, in the face amidst the disorderly conduct.

Details presented in North Somerset Magistrates’ Court revealed that Spurling’s actions were met with some degree of amusement from him, as he reportedly cheered after hitting the horse. The court heard that Spurling’s aggressive behavior extended to physical contact with law enforcement personnel and animals alike during the confrontation.

Representing Spurling, Sue Cameron explained that her client’s punch was a reaction after being pushed back by the horse. She acknowledged that any physical contact with an animal, especially in such a manner, could cause unnecessary suffering. However, she emphasized that there was no physical injury inflicted on the animal, and the horse was described as being in good health the following day, grazing peacefully in a paddock.

The court considered the incident serious enough to impose a sentence that included a 10-week community order and a 10-week curfew. Additionally, Spurling was ordered to pay £500 in compensation to the police officer who was targeted during the altercation. This case highlights the dangers and consequences of drunken violence, especially when it involves both law enforcement and animals.