Premier League footballer Kurt Zouma given community service for kicking his cat

Footballer Kurt Zouma has been given community service after admitting two offences under the Animal Welfare Act at a hearing at Thames Magistrates' Court in May. The case was brought following an investigation by the RSPCA after footage emerged showing Kurt kicking his pet cat, throwing a pair of shoes at it, and slapping its head. The incident was filmed by Kurt's younger brother, who subsequently posted the video on social media.

The sentencing hearing took place earlier this month. Kurt Zouma, who plays for West Ham, was ordered to carry out 180 hours of community service. The 27-year-old defender has also been banned from keeping cats for five years and was told to pay court costs of around £9,000. Mr Zouma apologised for his actions and agreed for his two cats to be rehomed. His brother, Yoan, was given 140 hours of community service after admitting one count of aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring Kurt to commit an offence. Yoan Zouma is also a footballer and currently plays for Dagenham and Redbridge.

Hazel Stevens of Cardinal Chambers was the prosecutor in the case. Hazel is well versed in animal welfare law. She is renowned for her ability to prosecute on behalf of significant clients such as the RSPCA. Hazel is currently ranked by Chambers and Partners in Band 1 for Animal Law.

Trevor Burke KC, Three Raymond Buildings, defended Kurt Zouma in this case. Trevor's Chambers and Partners profile can be found here.

Animal Law is an All Circuits ranking table and was introduced as a section in the 2022 Chambers UK Bar guide. Chambers and Partners currently recognises 3 junior barristers who are practicing in the growing field of Animal Law.

If you are interested in learning more about Animal Law, listen to the podcast, An Overview of Animal Protection Law. The Chambers Student Team discusses the practice area with Edie Bowles of Advocates for Animals.

Additionally, a legal topics article introducing the Animal Law ranking table can be found here.