A man who was caught on CCTV leaving a stables half naked has been jailed for sexually assaulting a horse.
Andrew Main broke into Redwings Horse Sanctuary in Hapton Hall, Norfolk, on May 29 last year and committed the vile act.
The 36-year-old was captured on security footage leaving the stable block partially undressed after the horse – a mare named Louise – was also seen in a state of distress and trying to bolt, Norfolk Magistrates’ Court heard.
A vet called in to treat the horse after the sadistic attack found it had suffered internal injuries caused by ‘forceful penetration’.
Main, of Tasburgh, Norfolk, parked in a nearby layby before breaking into the sanctuary. Defending, Lisa Robinson said Main carries “deep shame and regret” over the incident.
He admitted causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal on the basis he had used his hand to penetrate the horse. He was jailed for 20 weeks.
Deputy District Judge Sundeep Pankhania told him: “This offence was sadistic and what makes it all the worse was that it was committed on a defenceless horse. I don’t accept the suggestion that this was a moment of madness. There was clearly a sexual element to the offence.”
Ms Robinson added Main is unemployed and lived at home with his parents, “too ashamed” to admit the offence to potential employers.