BLACKBURN MAN DANIEL LEAH BANNED FROM OWNING ANIMALS AFTER CRUELTY CASE INVOLVING STAFFORDSHIRE BULL TERRIER IN OBAN DRIVE

A man from Blackburn named Daniel Leah, aged 34, has been officially prohibited from owning animals following a court case initiated by the RSPCA. The case centered around allegations of animal cruelty and neglect involving Leah’s treatment of his Staffordshire Bull Terrier, named Bruno.

Concerns about Bruno’s welfare were raised after reports of verbal abuse and distressing behavior by Leah came to light. Court proceedings included the presentation of audio recordings that vividly captured the suffering of the dog. These recordings, played during the trial, revealed Bruno’s cries of distress while he was inside Leah’s property on Oban Drive. The recordings, which were taken between December 2023 and March 2024, documented Leah’s angry outbursts, during which the dog vocalized loudly, clearly indicating fear and discomfort.

RSPCA officers who visited Leah’s residence found tangible evidence of his anger and frustration, especially after Bruno had soiled inside the house. Despite initial advice from the RSPCA to Leah to train Bruno using positive reinforcement techniques, concerns persisted regarding his aggressive and abusive behavior towards the animal.

In March 2024, the RSPCA, in collaboration with Lancashire Police, intervened to remove Bruno from Leah’s care. The veterinarian who examined Bruno confirmed that the dog was suffering mentally, exhibiting signs of fear and distress caused by Leah’s aggressive shouting and hostile environment. The vet’s assessment highlighted the emotional toll inflicted on the animal, emphasizing the severity of the abuse.

Leah appeared before Blackburn Magistrates Court on April 17, where he was handed a series of penalties. He received a five-year ban on keeping any animals, a 12-month community order that includes 20 days of rehabilitation, and a 28-day curfew. Additionally, he was ordered to pay costs amounting to £100 and a victim surcharge of £114. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness with which the justice system treats cases of animal cruelty.

Susie Micallef, the Chief Inspector of the RSPCA, commented on the case, underscoring the damaging impact of abusive behavior on animals. She reaffirmed the RSPCA’s commitment to protecting animals from such cruelty and confirmed that Bruno was subsequently placed in a loving and caring home, ensuring his well-being moving forward.