RNC pursuing charges after police horses struck during protest

The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary says it's pursuing criminal charges after two of its police horses were struck during a tense exchange with fish harvesters and police outside Confederation Building on Wednesday.

"There are specific Criminal Code violations for injuries against a law enforcement animal which will be pursued," wroteRNCcommunications directorDanielle Barronin an email.

Barron pointed to the charge of wilfully causing unnecessary pain, suffering or injury to an animal or a bird.

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Video captured by CBC News shows one man slapping a police horse onthe hindquarters and another pulling on the horse's harness as the animals closed in on individuals blocking the entrance. It is unclear which incident the police force is referring to when discussing the potential of laying charges.

During a news conference hours later, Premier Andrew Furey said there was a "fairly significant injury" to one RNC officer, who was seen being taken away by ambulance. No details have been released on the severity of the injury;however, the RNC said the injury occurred during a "rush" from protesters.

"Some of the videos that I've seen punching horses and assaulting individuals that's unacceptable and the police have a job to do and as they will continue to do today," Fureysaid.

During that same skirmish as police attempted and failed to escort public servants into the building, fish harvester Richard Martin of Shoe Cove was injured and taken to hospital.

John Efford Jr. told CBCNews thatMartinbroke his hip after an exchange with police.

Video from the scene does not show what happens beforeMartinis on the ground.

"This is your fault,motherf--ker," another fisherman yells, pointing to a police officer. "You should be ashamed of yourself."

Fish harvester Jason Sullivan called the injury "needless."

"You could tell by the way that people were congregated around the entrances that, you know, no one was getting in. There was no need of the RNC running at people with horses, trying to drive them and scare them away,"Sullivan said.

In a statement released shortly before 3:30 p.m. NT, the RNCsaid its response was "not unlike other demonstrations of similar size" and it respects the right to a peaceful protest.

"We continue to ask that all demonstrators remain respectful, peaceful and lawful," the statement says.

"Disruptive activities may lead to arrests and criminal charges under relevant Criminal Code sections, for examplemischief, causing a disturbance, unlawful assembly, etc."

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