Bond set for Chicago horseman who rode on city expressway

CHICAGO (AP) - The man known as the ``Dreadhead Cowboy,'ť who rode a horse on a Chicago expressway to protest gun violence was ordered held Wednesday in lieu of $25,000 bond.

Adam Hollingsworth, 33, faces felony aggravated animal cruelty and misdemeanor counts of trespassing and reckless conduct charges. Assistant Public Defender Emily Bock disputed the animal cruelty charges against Hollingsworth, saying he loves horses and there is no indication he would do anything to harm his horse.

Cook County Circuit Judge David Navarro called the alleged treatment of the horse 'œterrible.'ť

'œThe horse doesn't know it's a part of a protest, the horse only knows how it's been treated,'ť he said. 'œIt would appear from (prosecutors) its treatment was criminal.'ť

The horse was bleeding from the left hoof and had an injury on the right hoof, apparently from being ridden on pavement without shoes, according to a Chicago police report, which also noted the horse had 'œsignificant saddle sores'ť and was exhausted by the ride.

Hollingsworth's miles-long ride Monday resulted in extensive delays on the Dan Ryan Expressway. He was taken into custody by Illinois State Police after he rode up an exit ramp. Hollingsworth has said the ride was meant to bring attention to violence against children.