The Nature Protection Service (SEPRONA) of the Civil Guard of the Las Palmas Command has arrested a man, an equestrian instructor and responsible for a horse, for an alleged crime against animals. The action was carried out on January 20, 2026, following an investigation initiated as a result of the serious events that occurred during a regional show jumping championship
The events took place at a sports facility where the competition was being held. During the event, the now-detained individual allegedly reacted violently after the animal's elimination from the course. Instead of carrying out the usual cooling and recovery tasks after the exertion, he allegedly began to kick it in the abdomen and side, an assault that occurred in front of several witnesses, including minors.
From that moment on, SEPRONA immediately began an investigation to clarify the facts. The rapid intervention of the agents, together with the collaboration of the federative officials, made it possible to secure the testimonies of the witnesses and preserve the necessary evidence for the progress of the proceedings.
With the development of the investigation, an official veterinary report was carried out in the same enclosure, which proved to be decisive. The examination accredited that the horse was in poor condition: undressed, sweaty, trembling, and with signs of nervousness and defensive attitude in the presence of the aggressor. These indications confirmed both the existence of physical abuse and the omission of basic care, which put the animal's health and well-being at risk
Finally, once the proceedings were concluded, SEPRONA brought the facts to the attention of the judicial authority. The proceedings initiated have been sent to the Court of Instruction on duty and to the Environmental Prosecutor's Office of Las Palmas