"Dagenham & Redbridge note the decision of the RSPCA to charge Yoan Zouma under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Yoan continues to co-operate with the RSPCA; it is no longer appropriate for either Yoan or the club to make any further statement"; West Ham have yet to comment on Kurt Zouma
Wednesday 16 March 2022 15:45, UK
Kurt Zouma's brother and Dagenham & Redbridge defender, Yoan, has been charged under the Animal Welfare Act, his club have confirmed.
Yoan Zouma was suspended by Dagenham in February after he filmed his brother Kurt slapping and kicking his own cat.
The National League club confirmed on Wednesday that Yoan Zouma had now been charged by the RSPCA over the incident. Their statement did not mention Kurt Zouma.
Sky Sports News have contacted West Ham United for comment in relation to Kurt Zouma.
"Dagenham & Redbridge FC note the decision of the RSPCA to charge Yoan Zouma under the Animal Welfare Act 2006," the statement said.
"Whilst Yoan continues to fully co-operate with the RSPCA, as this matter has now progressed further, Dagenham & Redbridge FC feel it is no longer appropriate for either Yoan or the club to make any further statement.
"Dagenham & Redbridge FC maintain their position in that the club continues to condemn all animal cruelty."
Dagenham did say that the defender would now be available to play for them after his period of suspension.
"Since the allegation, and whilst investigations were taking place, Dagenham &Redbridge FC took the decision that Yoan should not play football for the club," the statement continued.
"Four weeks have now elapsed however since the incident, and the club feels that any further suspension from the team would be detrimental to both the club and Yoan. A decision has been made therefore for Yoan to be available to play.
"The club reserves the right to take further action if deemed necessary after conclusion of the court proceedings."
Kurt Zouma has continued to play for West Ham since the incident, but has been on the receiving end of booing, including from Hammers fans.
West Ham boss David Moyes said he understood the criticism he faced for continuing to select the France international, admitting what the player had done was "terrible".
Kurt Zouma apologised for his actions and had his cats removed by the RSPCA.
Zouma said: "I also want to say how deeply sorry I am to anyone who was upset by the video. I would like to assure everyone that our two cats are perfectly fine and healthy.
"They are loved and cherished by our entire family, and this behaviour was an isolated incident that will not happen again."
