Man fined for frightening horses

A man in the Zurich Oberland has been convicted of animal cruelty after a bizarre incident in which he dressed as a horse and danced in a pasture, frightening a herd of horses.

According to authorities, the commotion caused one animal to jump a fence and fall onto a road, and fracture a leg - resulting in lifelong lameness.

The 37-year-old carpenter received a suspended fine of CHF 6,500, plus additional penalties and court costs. 

The court said he was fully aware of the risk his behaviour posed to the animals.

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