TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Tampa Police Department body camera video shows the tense moments after a man hit a police horse and fled in Ybor City.
A mounted officer was attempting to clear out the bustling 7th Avenue early Sunday morning when the 22-year-old suspect walked up and hit the horse, named Opus.
Massive great white shark pings off Florida coast
Opus and the officer chased down the suspect through the crowded sidewalk. He was placed under arrest and charged with a felony count of committing offenses against police animals and a misdemeanor count of resisting an officer without violence.
“So, let this be your reminder: intentionally striking our four-legged partners is a crime with serious consequences,” TPD wrote in a Facebook post . “While our K-9s and horses love engaging with the community, always ask their handler for permission before approaching.”…