Cruelty case ‘sends a message’ says council

A £2,100 legal bill in an cruelty case sends out a message that those who fail to care for animals properly may face more severe punishments.
A bearded dragon.A bearded dragon.
A bearded dragon.

That’s according to Armagh Banbridge and Craigavon Council which brought the case against Aaron Hobby from Wayside, Tandragee.

He was convicted of failing to ensure the welfare of a number of reptiles in his care, has been ordered to pay just under £2,100 in legal fees and care costs in addition to a £100 fine and a £15 offender’s levy.

The defendant whose case was heard at Armagh Magistrates Court on 20th September also received a five-year disqualification from keeping and owning animals.

This ruling has paved the way for Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council to recoup costs incurred in securing a successful conviction.

A milk snake, a gecko and a bearded dragon were among the reptiles found in poor conditions when Animal Welfare Officers visited the defendant’s property in August 2017.

The reptiles were taken into the care of council after a veterinary surgeon assessed them as being likely to suffer.

In particular, the bearded dragon - a cold-blooded reptile which originates from warmer climates and requires artificial heating to remain healthy when kept in captivity - was being warmed by a red bulb, exposing it to serious risk of injury. A council spokesperson said: “The Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 2011 gives us the powers to prosecute anyone who neglects the needs of exotic as well as domestic animals.

“The substantial financial penalty imposed in this case is a positive outcome as it goes much further in sending out a clear message that those who fail to properly look after animals in their care may face more severe punishments.

“The conditions, in which these reptiles were kept, fell far short of what is acceptable.” To report cases, call 028 3751 5800 or email [email protected]