Marion County, FL — A Florida horse trainer has been arrested after a video surfaced showing him allegedly beating a horse belonging to a client, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say the incident was captured on video and shared with deputies by the horse’s owner, who had hired the trainer to care for and train the animal. The footage reportedly shows the trainer repeatedly striking the horse, including kicking it in the abdomen and pulling on its bridle.
Arrest Made After Video Review
Deputies reviewed the video and identified the trainer as 34-year-old Benito Cotto Colon, who was arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty on January 16.
Investigators say the horse displayed signs of distress during the incident. The owner, who had hired Colon more than a year earlier, reported the abuse after receiving the video from a third party.
Trainer Admits to Being in Video
According to investigators, Colon posted on social media acknowledging he was the person in the video. In the post, he reportedly claimed the horse nearly threw him off just moments before the footage was recorded and admitted that his actions were inappropriate.
Horse Found to Be in Good Health
A veterinarian examined the horse after the incident and determined that the animal was in good condition despite the abuse shown in the video.
Colon is facing animal cruelty charges, and the case is ongoing. Authorities say the arrest was made based on evidence gathered from the video and the trainer’s own admissions.
Video Credit: wtsp.com