There has been a significant escalation in the case of the man known as the urban cowboy of Victoriaville.
For several years, Jean Roy has been battling the municipality southeast of Trois Rivieres, insisting that he has the right to ride his horse, Dandy, through the city. He says most of the time, Dandy gets a great reaction from passersby.
However, some city politicians say they've fielded complaints about Roy failing to clean up after his horse, and scaring people by riding through crowded areas. He has racked up thousands of dollars in tickets - and is now facing criminal charges.
Sunday, he rode Dandy into a city park during a concert, breaking a bylaw newly enacted with him in mind. The police officers who moved in to stop him say the 55-year old appeared intoxicated. They allege that he resisted arrest, and recommended to the Crown that he be criminally charged.
Roy made a court appearance yesterday and was released pending a court appearance next month.
Animal protection officials say they'll be checking on Dandy.