Police are investigating a controversial incident involving a horse rider and hunt saboteur that was captured on video.
The incident occurred in Whissendine, Rutland, at approximately 1.45 p.m. on Saturday, 11 February. It is believed that the horseman is Sam Jones, huntsman for the Cottesmore Hunt.
The video captured by the hunt saboteurs appears to show the rider ploughing into the woman as he leaps over a gate. However, the Cottesmore Hunt asserts that the woman intentionally placed herself in the horse’s path.
Leicestershire Police have confirmed that they are investigating the incident, despite no reports of serious injuries. The hunt saboteurs have now given the police their video footage of the incident.
In response to the incident, the Cottesmore Hunt stated that “potential criminal charges” are being considered against the hunt saboteur. In a statement released today, they stated, “As his horse took off, it is evident that the previously stationary person moved, placing themselves deliberately in the path of the jumping horse, potentially causing injury to themselves, the horse, and Sam.”
The hunt saboteurs are a group of individuals who actively oppose hunting. They employ various strategies to disrupt hunts, such as blowing horns and laying false trails for the hounds.
The incident in Rutland has prompted discussion regarding the safety of riders and protesters during hunt events. It remains to be seen what action Leicestershire Police will take following the conclusion of their investigation.
