DANIEL JONES FROM BARRY SENTENCED FOR BRUTAL ANIMAL ABUSE IN VALE OF GLAMORGAN

A man from Barry, Daniel Bradley Jones, aged 27, has been sentenced to prison after a series of horrific acts of cruelty involving two young kittens. The case, which drew significant attention from animal welfare authorities, revealed a disturbing pattern of repeated violence inflicted upon the vulnerable animals, ultimately leading to the death of one of them.

In September 2023, Jones brought one of his cats, Maisey, to a veterinary clinic claiming that he had accidentally stepped on her at home. He explained to the veterinarian that Maisey had been crying and making paddling motions with her legs, suggesting he believed the injury was accidental. However, the veterinarian's examination painted a far more sinister picture. The vet observed signs of severe trauma consistent with being trodden or stamped on with considerable force. Maisey was found to have chest injuries, bruising on her jaw, and her left eye was protruding. Blood was present in her mouth, and X-ray scans revealed multiple fractures, including a broken shoulder blade, a fractured rib, and a collapsed lung on her left side. Tragically, Maisey was declared dead upon arrival at the clinic.

Just two months later, in November 2023, Jones took his other cat, Odin, to the same veterinary practice. He initially claimed that Odin had run into an Xbox console placed on a shelf three days earlier, but later changed his story, stating that the Xbox was on the floor. Odin was found to be soaking wet and suffering from hypothermia. The cat exhibited signs of head and spinal trauma and was clearly in pain. The injuries sustained by Odin were severe and inconsistent with the explanations provided by Jones.

Both cats had been bathed by Jones despite veterinary advice against doing so, as both animals had shown signs of nervousness and distress when handled. The veterinary report concluded that the injuries sustained by Maisey and Odin were not consistent with accidental causes. An independent veterinary expert further confirmed that the injuries were the result of physical abuse. Maisey’s death was attributed to lung collapse and respiratory failure caused by her chest trauma and fractured rib.

Following a thorough investigation, Jones pleaded guilty to three offences under the Animal Welfare Act. His sentencing took place on February 25, 2025, after the RSPCA prosecuted the case. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Jones was experiencing mental health issues linked to cannabis use, which was presented as mitigation.

RSPCA inspector Miranda Albinson issued a statement emphasizing the gravity of the case: “Both of these kittens were presented at the vets on numerous occasions with different injuries caused whilst in the care of Jones and no doubt inflicted by Jones. Maisie unfortunately lost her life as a result of the abuse she suffered but due to the concerns of the veterinary practice Odin (who has since been rehomed) was protected from further harm. These were two young and vulnerable kittens who relied on Jones to care for them. This type of abuse will always be investigated and justice will be sought to prevent further animals being harmed.”

Jones was sentenced to 40 weeks in jail, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £187, and was banned from keeping any pets for a period of five years. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the ongoing efforts of authorities to combat cruelty in the Vale of Glamorgan and beyond.