Kurt Zouma and his brother are charged by the RSPCA over video of the West Ham star drop-kicking his cat

Kurt Zouma and his brother Yoan have been charged beneath the Animal Welfare Act following an RSPCA investigation into final month’s cat-kicking incident.

Yoan Zouma, who has been suspended by Dagenham in February after he filmed his brother slapping and kicking his personal cats in a video that was shared on social media. The 27-year-old’s pets have been taken away and stay in care.

An RSPCA assertion stated: “Following a full and thorough investigation, we’ve began the method of bringing a prosecution in opposition to Kurt Zouma and Yoan Zouma beneath the Animal Welfare Act.

“The 2 cats proceed to be cared for by the RSPCA. We can be able to launch extra info as soon as a court docket date is confirmed.”

A West Ham assertion stated: “West Ham United is conscious of the RSPCA assertion in relation to its investigation involving Kurt Zouma. Kurt continues to co-operate absolutely, supported by the Membership.

“It’s our understanding that Kurt’s cats have been checked by a vet, are in good well being and have suffered no bodily accidents. For authorized causes, neither Kurt or the Membership can be making any additional remark presently.”

Kurt Zouma apologised for his actions earlier this 12 months. He stated: “I additionally wish to say how deeply sorry I’m to anybody who was upset by the video. I want to guarantee everybody that our two cats are completely wonderful and wholesome.

“They’re beloved and cherished by our whole household, and this behaviour was an remoted incident that won’t occur once more.”

Yoan Zouma was suspended by Dagenham in February. A press release stated: “Dagenham & Redbridge FC word the choice of the RSPCA to cost Yoan Zouma beneath the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

“While Yoan continues to completely co-operate with the RSPCA, as this matter has now progressed additional, Dagenham & Redbridge FC really feel it’s not acceptable for both Yoan or the membership to make any additional assertion.

“Dagenham & Redbridge FC preserve their place in that the membership continues to sentence all animal cruelty.”

Dagenham stated the defender can be accessible to play for them after his interval of suspension.

“Because the allegation, and while investigations have been happening, Dagenham &Redbridge FC took the choice that Yoan mustn’t play soccer for the membership,” the assertion continued.

“4 weeks have now elapsed nonetheless for the reason that incident, and the membership feels that any additional suspension from the group can be detrimental to each the membership and Yoan. A call has been made subsequently for Yoan to be accessible to play.

“The membership reserves the appropriate to take additional motion if deemed vital after conclusion of the court docket proceedings.”