Michael Deas, 32, of Beaconsfield Street, Blyth, has been jailed for eight months after admitting 21 animal cruelty charges. The charges related to five Cane Corso puppies found abandoned in Newbiggin, as well as two adult female Cane Corsos and an XL Bully. Three of the puppies were euthanised due to their severe condition.
Details of the case
Lisa Miller, prosecuting for Northumberland County Council, told Newcastle Magistrates Court that on January 18 last year, the five puppies were found abandoned. Each was severely malnourished and had complex health needs, including the condition 'cherry eye', which can be expensive to correct. A vet who examined the puppies found their condition was likely exacerbated by inadequate exercise and nutrition, and confirmed they were likely suffering due to hunger.
Three of the five puppies were euthanised, one just days after being found. After a public appeal, Deas was identified as the owner. Senior animal welfare officer Gemma Tokell attended his address, where she discovered the three adult dogs. Deas was offered support at the time, but did not take it up.
Further welfare concerns
In May and June, further concerns were raised about the welfare of the three adult dogs, who were staying at the property alone. Deas had said he was visiting three times daily to care for them, but in June it was reported that no one had visited for several days. The two female Cane Corsos were signed over, while the XL Bully, being a banned breed, was euthanised as it could not be rehomed.
Miller said the vet was of the view that both the adult dogs and the puppies had been suffering when further assessed. Deas later admitted in a police interview that not enough had been done for the dogs. The prosecution argued there was a high level of harm, as it resulted in three of the animals being euthanised.
Sentencing
Deas, who had no legal representation, spoke only to confirm his age, address, and guilty pleas, and to discuss his work and family situation. He said he was employed in Blyth working on pilot boats and had three children. District Judge Paul Currer, sitting with two magistrates, said: 'Having a dog is a privilege and a responsibility and by pleading guilty you have acknowledged that you have fallen short of the responsibility that the law requires.'
The judge said the bench had decided to sentence him primarily for neglect to one of the puppies who died, Freya. He said Deas had shown 'disregard for the welfare of the dogs' and noted 'a high degree of pain and suffering caused to Freya and the other dogs.' He added: 'The bench is of the view that only a custodial sentence is appropriate. On the basis of everything we have heard, the bench is of the view that there are exceptional circumstances in this case.'
Reaction from councillor
Northumberland County Councillor Gordon Stewart, cabinet chief for public safety, said: 'An 8-month prison sentence reflects the gravity of this appalling neglect and sends a clear, unmistakable message that animal cruelty will not be tolerated in our county. Our animal welfare officers are dedicated and very persistent in bringing offenders to justice.'
'There is no excuse for animal neglect or cruelty. These dogs were in a terrible condition so had been suffering for some time and despite best efforts, some very regrettably had to be euthanised on welfare grounds. We urge people to really think very long and hard before getting any pet and consider whether they have the time, dedication and finances to look after a pet properly.'
Deas will have to pay a court surcharge and a contribution to veterinary costs. He was also banned from keeping animals for 15 years, with it being 10 years before he can apply to have the ban lifted.
