West Ham footballer Kurt Zouma has been charged with three offences under the Animal Welfare Act for allegedly harming his cat.
In February, the 27 year old defender was allegedly filmed slapping and kicking his pet cat in a video which was uploaded to Snapchat by his brother Yoan.
He is accused of two counts of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal and one count of breaching animal welfare duty.
His brother Yoan, 23, who plays for Dagenham and Redbridge in the National League, will also appear in court having been charged with two counts of 'aiding and abetting' animal cruelty.
The brothers are expected to appear at Thames Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
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Kurt has continued to play for West Ham during the RSPCA investigation, while his brother Yoan was temporarily suspended by Dagenham & Redbridge before being allowed to return to the squad in March.
The animal charity previously said in a statement: "Following a full and thorough investigation, we have started the process of bringing a prosecution against Kurt Zouma and Yoan Zouma under the Animal Welfare Act.
"The two cats continue to be cared for by the RSPCA. We will be in a position to release more information once a court date is confirmed."
Meanwhile, Kurt's club West Ham said in a statement on Wednesday: "West Ham United is aware of the RSPCA statement in relation to its investigation involving Kurt Zouma.
"Kurt continues to co-operate fully, supported by the Club."
Yoan's club previously said in a statement: "Whilst Yoan continues to fully co-operate with the RSPCA, as this matter has now progressed further, Dagenham & Redbridge FC feel it is no longer appropriate for either Yoan or the Club to make any further statement.
"Dagenham & Redbridge FC maintain their position in that the Club continues to condemn all animal cruelty.
"Since the allegation, and whilst investigations were taking place, Dagenham & Redbridge FC took the decision that Yoan should not play football for the Club.
They added: "Four weeks have now elapsed however since the incident, and the Club feels that any further suspension from the team would be detrimental to both the Club and Yoan.
"A decision has been made therefore for Yoan to be available to play.
"The Club reserves the right to take further action if deemed necessary after conclusion of the Court proceedings," it concluded.
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