A 19-year-old man admits attempting to allow sexual penetration of a Shetland pony named Cheeky. Thomas Mikaelson made his first appearance at Leeds Crown Court and covered his face as he entered and left the building, according to reports.
The charge stems from an incident at Gledhill Farm in Almondbury, near Huddersfield, on 24 August last year. Mikaelson pleaded guilty to attempting to allow sexual penetration by a living animal. He also denied a separate count of recklessly trespassing in order to commit a relevant sexual offence.
Across outlets, the proceedings and key details are consistent, with no differing accounts of what he pleaded to. The reports also say the judge does not pass sentence immediately and instead adjourns the case to allow further steps, including a probation report and a victim impact statement from the farmer involved. The case is listed for sentencing on 17 November, and he is bailed in the meantime.
