NOTTINGHAM MAN JAILED FOR SEVERE PET ABUSE THAT LED TO PUPPY’S DEATH
A heartless animal abuser has been sentenced to jail after inflicting horrific injuries upon a five-month-old puppy named Mula, resulting in her being euthanized.Jerome Lothian, aged 28, was responsible for causing multiple fractures to Mula's leg, pelvis, and spine over a period of two months of severe abuse.
The court heard how Lothian left the dog with injuries that included old untreated fractures and a recent fracture in her hind leg.
Despite attempts by veterinary experts and pet charities, it was determined that the injuries were due to physical abuse and could not be treated successfully.
Lothian tried to claim that the injuries were caused by the puppy falling from a sofa and a step, but experts disagreed, citing 'severe blunt force trauma' as the cause of her suffering.
Heartbreaking images documented Mula's condition, showing her struggling to stand with her leg in a bandage.
After a police investigation, Lothian was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering and other animal welfare offenses at Nottingham Magistrates Court.
He was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison, banned from keeping animals for life, and ordered to pay £2,000 in costs and a victim surcharge of £120.
His partner, Danielle Toni O'Brien, aged 31, was also convicted of failing to provide veterinary care and allowing the animal to suffer, receiving a 12-month community order, 20 rehabilitation days, and a deprivation order for another dog she owns.
The RSPCA inspector Helen Mead, who was present during the puppy's final moments, expressed her sorrow: 'This young dog endured repeated abuse at the hands of Lothian.
Being with her as she was put to sleep, I hope myself and the lovely team at the PDSA gave her some comfort in her final moments.
This case of deliberate cruelty will stay with me for a very long time,' she said.
The veterinarian's report noted that the severity of the injuries meant Mula would be left in chronic pain, prompting her euthanasia.
The court also detailed how the injuries did not match the explanations given by Lothian and O’Brien, with discrepancies between their accounts.
The owner, Lothian, was ordered to pay legal costs and a victim surcharge, and his partner received a community sentence and other penalties.
The case has highlighted ongoing concerns about animal abuse, with authorities urging vigilance and action against such cruelty.
