BENJAMIN BEVERLEY FROM HARWICH SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOGS IN HARWICH

On February 16, 2021, residents and visitors in Harwich were shaken by a disturbing incident involving local resident Benjamin Beverley, born on May 10, 1968, who resides at 10 Hordle Place, Harwich CO12 3PY. Beverley was involved in a brutal act of animal cruelty that drew immediate attention from the community and law enforcement authorities alike.

According to reports, police officers responded to a distress call from concerned members of the public who had witnessed a man abusing a dog on the beach at Lower Marine Parade in Harwich. Witnesses described a scene that was both upsetting and alarming, with one individual taking to Facebook to recount the events. She detailed that Beverley had let his dog off its lead, allowing it to run freely on the beach, where it attacked a small Springer Spaniel multiple times. The witness noted that the dog did not return to Beverley's control despite attempts to call it back.

Further reports indicated that Beverley’s behavior became aggressive when bystanders tried to intervene and assist the distressed animal. The witness recounted that Beverley, after finally catching his dog, subjected it to a violent beating, holding it up and punching it in a manner that was described as both shocking and heartbreaking. The incident culminated with Beverley carrying the injured dog back to the promenade, hanging from its collar, which added to the community’s distress.

Another witness expressed their horror at the scene, describing it as “the most awful thing I’ve seen,” and expressed concern for the welfare of the dog. She revealed her emotional response, stating she was so upset that she attempted to buy the dog from Beverley in an effort to save it. She also mentioned that anyone who confronted Beverley was met with hostility and foul language. The witness voiced fears about what might be happening behind closed doors, suggesting that the abuse could be ongoing and more severe than what was visible publicly.

Following the incident, authorities launched a thorough investigation. The Harwich Community Policing Team, in collaboration with the RSPCA, visited Beverley's residence. During their visit, they discovered two additional dogs that showed signs of injuries and neglect, indicating that the owner’s treatment of animals extended beyond the incident on the beach. These dogs were rescued and taken into the care of the RSPCA, which led the subsequent investigation into Beverley's conduct.

In court, Beverley pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including four counts of causing intentional fear or provocation of violence, one count of causing harassment, alarm or distress, and two counts of animal cruelty. His sentencing included a 15-week prison sentence, which was suspended for 12 months, along with a financial penalty totaling £813 covering costs and charges. Additionally, Beverley was ordered to participate in a 20-day activity program with the probation service. A significant consequence of his conviction was a five-year ban on keeping any animals, a restriction that will remain in effect until November 2026.

This case has once again highlighted the importance of animal welfare and the need for vigilance within communities to prevent such acts of cruelty. The community of Harwich continues to rally around efforts to protect vulnerable animals and ensure that offenders are held accountable for their actions.