Menu
14/03/2014
Long Questions Animal Cruelty Sentences
East Belfast MP and Alliance deputy leader Naomi Long is said to be seeking advice as to whether sentences handed down in an animal cruelty case can be referred for appeal by the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Jeremiah Kirkwood, 43, his sons Christopher, 23 and Wayne, 20, all of Island Street, pleaded guilty to a number of charges, including keeping animals for fighting; having equipment in connection with animal fights and causing unnecessary suffering to puppies. 19-year-old Jamie Morrow of McAllister Court admitted keeping or training an animal for a fight.
All men received six-month sentences, suspended for two years.
Ms Long has said there is a question as to whether the cases can be referred for review. Under the Animal Welfare (NI) Act 2011, the maximum penalty for causing acts of animal cruelty is two years in prison.
The East Belfast MP said she wanted Director of Public Prosecutions Barra McGrory QC to appeal the sentence if possible.
"Although custodial sentences being handed down in animal abuse cases are rare, the crimes in this instance were extreme, deliberate and premeditated," Naomi Long said.
"People who do these sorts of activities are not only a danger to the poor animals involved but they are also a threat to people and society as a whole. If this case of cruelty did not warrant a custodial sentence it is hard to imagine the level of barbarity which would be required to merit one.
"Constituents who had previously approached me looking for help in relation to their missing pets had their worst fears confirmed thanks to these men and their vile actions, and have been hugely distressed in the process.
"Appealing the relatively lenient outcome would send a strong message to those who continue to take part in this sort of cruel behaviour and to the public who are affected by this cruelty that it will be treated seriously when brought before the courts."
(IT)
Jeremiah Kirkwood, 43, his sons Christopher, 23 and Wayne, 20, all of Island Street, pleaded guilty to a number of charges, including keeping animals for fighting; having equipment in connection with animal fights and causing unnecessary suffering to puppies. 19-year-old Jamie Morrow of McAllister Court admitted keeping or training an animal for a fight.
All men received six-month sentences, suspended for two years.
Ms Long has said there is a question as to whether the cases can be referred for review. Under the Animal Welfare (NI) Act 2011, the maximum penalty for causing acts of animal cruelty is two years in prison.
The East Belfast MP said she wanted Director of Public Prosecutions Barra McGrory QC to appeal the sentence if possible.
"Although custodial sentences being handed down in animal abuse cases are rare, the crimes in this instance were extreme, deliberate and premeditated," Naomi Long said.
"People who do these sorts of activities are not only a danger to the poor animals involved but they are also a threat to people and society as a whole. If this case of cruelty did not warrant a custodial sentence it is hard to imagine the level of barbarity which would be required to merit one.
"Constituents who had previously approached me looking for help in relation to their missing pets had their worst fears confirmed thanks to these men and their vile actions, and have been hugely distressed in the process.
"Appealing the relatively lenient outcome would send a strong message to those who continue to take part in this sort of cruel behaviour and to the public who are affected by this cruelty that it will be treated seriously when brought before the courts."
(IT)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
01 March 2016
Tougher Sentences Announced For Animal Cruelty
People who are cruel to animals will now face much tougher sentences. Agricultural Minister Michelle O'Neill and Justice Minister David Ford launched the Report of the Review of the Implementation of Animal Welfare Legislation in Belfast on Monday.
Tougher Sentences Announced For Animal Cruelty
People who are cruel to animals will now face much tougher sentences. Agricultural Minister Michelle O'Neill and Justice Minister David Ford launched the Report of the Review of the Implementation of Animal Welfare Legislation in Belfast on Monday.
23 October 2024
Other News In Brief
SF Renews Call For Govt To Scrap Legacy Bill Sinn Féin has called on the British government to "live up to its previous commitment" to scrap the cruel Legacy Act. Mid Ulster MLA Emma Sheerin said: "Sean Brown's family have fought for over 27 years to establish the full extent of the events which led to his murder.
Other News In Brief
SF Renews Call For Govt To Scrap Legacy Bill Sinn Féin has called on the British government to "live up to its previous commitment" to scrap the cruel Legacy Act. Mid Ulster MLA Emma Sheerin said: "Sean Brown's family have fought for over 27 years to establish the full extent of the events which led to his murder.
14 April 2023
NI Needs New Animal Welfare Legislation – Alliance
New legislation is needed to improve animal welfare and tackle animal cruelty in Northern Ireland, Alliance Party Animal Welfare Spokesperson Patrick Brown MLA has said.
NI Needs New Animal Welfare Legislation – Alliance
New legislation is needed to improve animal welfare and tackle animal cruelty in Northern Ireland, Alliance Party Animal Welfare Spokesperson Patrick Brown MLA has said.
28 April 2014
Hundreds Protest Against Animal Cruelty
A public rally has been held in Belfast city centre to protest against animal cruelty. The event, which took place on Sunday afternoon, saw hundreds of people attend. Many even brought their dogs and pets along.
Hundreds Protest Against Animal Cruelty
A public rally has been held in Belfast city centre to protest against animal cruelty. The event, which took place on Sunday afternoon, saw hundreds of people attend. Many even brought their dogs and pets along.
17 April 2003
Police arrest man in connection with sheep killings
Police have arrested a man in connection to the killing of sheep at a Co Tyrone farm earlier in the week. The killing of four sheep and 11 lambs at Brendan McLaughlin's Claudy farm on Tuesday was described by the USPCA as the worst case of pre-meditated animal cruelty it had ever come across in the province.
Police arrest man in connection with sheep killings
Police have arrested a man in connection to the killing of sheep at a Co Tyrone farm earlier in the week. The killing of four sheep and 11 lambs at Brendan McLaughlin's Claudy farm on Tuesday was described by the USPCA as the worst case of pre-meditated animal cruelty it had ever come across in the province.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
