Images Released of Horses Abused by Stable Volunteer in Rhondda Cynon Taf
The RSPCA has released images of two horses recently subjected to sexual abuse by a volunteer at a livery yard in Tonyrefail, Rhondda Cynon Taf—bringing a distressing case of animal cruelty into the public spotlight. This revelation comes after 26-year-old Corey Coleman, a regular helper at Ynyscrug livery yard, admitted to a harrowing series of offences at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates’ Court earlier this week.
Coleman, who is from Llanharan, was given an eight-week suspended prison sentence after pleading guilty to four animal welfare offences, admitting to having what he referred to as an “unhealthy interest” in horses. The court heard that CCTV evidence exposed disturbing activities, including Coleman using a mare named Nala to arouse stallions before entering their stables and carrying out acts of sexual abuse. The horses involved, a palomino stallion called Benny and a bay stallion named Bear, were pictured in images released by the RSPCA—an effort to highlight the case and raise awareness around animal protection.
During the investigation, RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben reported discovering a plastic container outside one stable which belonged to Coleman. The container held a bottle of baby lotion, a detail later corroborated by CCTV footage. Veterinary review of the evidence noted that Coleman repeatedly encouraged the stallions to nuzzle and mouth his bare forearm, behaviour the expert claimed was both deliberate and concerning.
In a further twist to the story, it was revealed that Coleman had been considered a trusted volunteer and was well known to the staff. He even continued working at the yard after sustaining a severe back injury last June, which he claimed was the result of a stallion attempting to mount him. This claim prompted the yard’s owner, Alex Hill, to review CCTV footage, only to uncover evidence of repeated abuse.
The footage showed Coleman manipulating situations to arouse the stallions, then entering their stalls and committing acts of sexual abuse. The distressing incidents are believed to have occurred across several occasions during June and July of last year, with behaviour including masturbation and digital penetration of the animals, according to RSPCA prosecutor Geraint Richards.
Police were called to the scene after Mr Hill’s alarming discovery. Coleman was arrested and during questioning made the unsolicited claim that his actions were “part of the cleaning,” a defence dismissed by both investigators and the court. The court further heard that children had been playing outside at the time, raising concerns about the risks such behaviour posed to others on the property.
During sentencing, magistrates highlighted the widespread and repeated nature of the offences, but took into account Coleman’s previous lack of criminal convictions and his expressed willingness to seek help. His solicitor, Daniel Maggs, acknowledged the highly unusual nature of the case and argued that the public exposure of Coleman’s actions would have a significant and lasting impact on his reputation and future opportunities. It was revealed that Coleman’s personal life, including a long-term relationship, has also suffered as a result.
A vet’s examination following the abuse fortunately found no lasting physical injuries to the horses, although the mental impact on the animals remains unclear. Both prosecution and defence parties accepted that while the visible consequences were limited, the behaviour had undoubtedly inflicted harm and unnecessary suffering.
In addition to the suspended sentence, Coleman must undertake 25 rehabilitation activity days and is banned from owning, keeping, or transporting horses for five years. He was also ordered to pay a £120 fine, a £154 victim services surcharge, and a £200 contribution towards the RSPCA’s prosecution costs; the rest of the legal fees will be covered by public funds.
Speaking after the verdict, RSPCA officer Gemma Cooper expressed relief that the animals had not suffered long-term injuries, but stressed the emotional toll such abuse inevitably carries. “We’d like to thank everyone involved in what has been a harrowing case,” she said, while reaffirming the charity’s dedication to animal welfare and justice.
This incident has prompted calls for increased vigilance and stricter measures in volunteer screening processes at stables and animal care facilities, as concern mounts over the vulnerabilities faced by animals—even at places where they should feel safe.