Benito Cotto Colon, a horse trainer hired to care for a woman’s Bay Paso Fino horse, was arrested in Marion County, Florida, after video footage surfaced showing him punching, kicking, and roughly handling the horse. The horse’s owner, May Marroquín, shared the footage with local authorities, prompting an investigation by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. In the video, Cotto Colon is seen kicking the horse multiple times while it showed signs of distress. He later admitted on Facebook to the abuse, claiming the horse had nearly thrown him off, but apologized for his inappropriate handling.

Following the report, authorities and a veterinarian checked on the horse, confirming it was healthy despite the abuse. Cotto Colon was arrested on an animal cruelty charge and detained in jail. Marroquín condemned the abuse, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in caring for animals. The case highlights ongoing concerns about animal treatment in equestrian settings, with similar incidents recently drawing public and legal scrutiny.