Send this story Print this story

Adjust text size

Pig assault lands man in jail
'Caused suffering and unnecessary cruelty to the pig'

by Glenn Wohltmann

A man's assault of a pig at the County Fair prompted some strong words from the judge in Alameda County Superior Court on Stoneridge Drive on July 6.

James Anthony Horn Jr., 22, of Livermore, was charged with public drunkenness after what Judge Hugh Walker described as "molesting a pig or harassing a pig."

The incident occurred at about 8:10 p.m. July 3 at the Fair's livestock barn. A police report says a witness reported Horn began his assault of the pig by throwing a drink at it in an attempt to get a rise from the full-grown Yorkshire pig. Such pigs can weigh up to 700 pounds.

"Other witnesses stated they observed Horn striking the pig with his hand in the head and in the hind quarters as well as pulling on the pig's ears and tail," Alameda County Sheriff's Deputy Clinton Mitry reported.

The report states that Horn "maliciously and intentionally tormented the pig, which caused suffering and unnecessary cruelty to the pig."

The owner "noted several slap hand prints on the pig's butt and back," the report says.

The police report says Horn had a blood alcohol content of .147, nearly twice the legal limit for driving while intoxicated.

Horn was held in the Alameda County Jail from the night of July 3 until July 6, when he was released. He was also ordered to attend two 12-step meetings per week -- and ordered to stay away from the Fair.