OFFENDER PLEADS GUILTY TO ANIMAL CRUELTY IN DUBLIN RIVERSIDE INCIDENT
Gary Kearney, aged 20, has pleaded guilty to an animal cruelty and torture charge after he was accused of throwing a pet rabbit belonging to a homeless man into the River Liffey.The incident occurred on July 3 last year, on O'Connell Bridge, Dublin.
The pet, named Barney, was thrown into the river while John Byrne, a 39-year-old homeless man who had been living rough for over 20 years, was sitting on the bridge.
Witnesses reported that Byrne risked his life to rescue Barney from the water, with both being pulled out by the Dublin Fire Brigade.
The dramatic rescue was captured on video, which went viral online.
Kearney, originally from Crumlin with an address in Conyngham Road, was later charged under the Protection of Animals Act, with allegations stating he "did cruelly torture or terrify an animal...
did throw a rabbit into the River Liffey from O'Connell Bridge." Kearney also faced a breach of the peace charge.
Initially denying the charges, Kearney later changed his plea to guilty, and the case adjourned for sentencing on December 4.
The charges, upon conviction, could lead to fines or imprisonment.
John Byrne, who was honored with a compassionate citizen award by the Animal Rights Action Network for his efforts and care for his pets, expressed his love for Barney and his dog Lilly, stating, "Barney and Lilly my babies," reinforcing his willingness to come to the rescue of his animals.
The incident garnered significant media attention, highlighting issues of animal cruelty and the plight of homeless individuals.
Kearney's case is now set to be heard on December 4, with potential penalties including fines or jail time.
