USPCA Renews call for Banned Offenders Register

Belfast man who kicked dog in the head jailed and banned from keeping animals for five years - read the media article here. 

The USPCA welcomes this recent sentencing by the Courts which imposed a four month prison term and a 5 year ban from owning animals on the individual in question. There is absolutely no excuse for inflicting harm on a defenceless animal, causing it to live in fear.

We note that his conviction is open to appeal however we firmly believe his disqualification from owning pets should stay in place. Unfortunately, time and time again, the USPCA has seen cases where those convicted of animal cruelty receive prison sentences and bans from owning animals but then go on to reoffend, causing further harm to animals.

We believe any person found guilty of harming an animal should face the full force of the law and the sentencing provisions we have here in Northern Ireland for animal cruelty. The Courts must send a clear message to such individuals that these horrible actions are not tolerated and will have consequences.

This case is another stark reminder of why we need a Banned Offenders Register in place – individuals receiving bans on owning animals should be placed on a register to ensure they cannot obtain another animal that could be subjected to their abuse. We need the creation of this register to be a priority for the incoming Assembly.