Ishmael Zamora, a sophomore wide receiver on the Baylor University football team, was issued a three-game suspension earlier this week in response to an incident that occurred in June, where Zamora appeared to be beating his dog on a teammate’s Snapchat story, according to The Washington Post.
Reportedly, Zamora was seen “whipping his dog with a belt,” in addition to kicking it and cursing at it. When a fellow student saw the footage, it was immediately reported to authorities.
“I lost my temper trying to discipline him,” Zamora said in August. “I’ve been through training with a dog trainer to help me learn new potty training tips.”
Zamora had been awaiting punishment until the announcement of his suspension last Tuesday. According to The Washington Post, the sophomore must also complete counseling, finish 40 hours of community service, and “relinquish the dog to an animal-friendly home.”
His current coach, Jim Grobe, said that even if the suspension hadn’t been announced, Zamora would not have played in the team’s first game of the season.
“Our football program does not condone this behavior by anyone,” Grobe said.“We are deeply saddened by it and have worked together with the University to hold Ishmael accountable for his actions.”
“I truly love my dog, however, I know that my actions showed differently and I know that I made a big mistake. I apologize to my family, teammates, Baylor University and our fans for my actions,” Zamora said, according to FOX News Sports. “Eventually, I hope that everyone can see who I really am and that I am not a terrible person.”
You can watch the disturbing Snapchat video here.
