Co Antrim man sentenced for causing severe injuries and suffering to kitten

A 21-year-old County Antrim man has been sentenced following a harrowing case of animal cruelty, in which a kitten sustained such severe injuries it had to be euthanised.

Joshua McClurg, of Fairview Lane, Newtownabbey appeared before Laganside Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 13th May, where he pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, contrary to the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011.

The case was brought forward by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council after an investigation by the Council’s Animal Welfare Officer.

The investigation was triggered after a report was made to a veterinary clinic by a distressed individual who had brought in a severely injured kitten. Despite veterinary intervention, the animal’s injuries were so grave that euthanasia was deemed the only humane option.

Video footage obtained during the Council’s inquiry provided damning evidence. The footage, captured by a doorbell camera, played a pivotal role in the case. Mr McClurg later admitted to the offence during an interview with investigating officers.

A veterinary report commissioned by the Council stated:

“On examination of the body I found the kitten to have crepitus of the lumbar spine but no visible bruising. I was provided with further video footage from a ring doorbell cam which showed the owner of the kitten and her partner arguing. During the video I noted the male picking the kitten up by the scruff. It is my opinion that this injury would have been caused by severe trauma.”

The report went on to detail further distress experienced by the animal:

“It is my opinion that this kitten would have suffered, and been in considerable pain, shock and distress. It has been reported by a witness that the kitten was lifted by the scruff and thrown on the floor after it had already fractured its spine. This would have caused further distress and suffering.”

In sentencing, District Judge Conner imposed a 20-year disqualification order on Mr McClurg, banning him from owning animals for two decades. He also received a 10-month custodial sentence, suspended for 2 years, and was ordered to pay £193 in costs.

A spokesperson for Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council condemned the incident, stating:

“Council places a high priority on the welfare of domestic pets and horses and operates a rigorous enforcement policy to ensure full compliance of regulatory requirements. Complaints are investigated thoroughly and where necessary formal action is taken, which may include the service of Improvement Notices, or in extreme cases, seizure of animals.

“The Council may also prosecute for offences such as in this case which I hope serves as a warning to anyone who does not take appropriate care of animals.”

This case serves as a stark reminder of the legal and moral responsibility pet owners carry, and the serious consequences of failing to uphold basic standards of animal welfare.