JOSH HEARD PUNCHED AND HIT DOGS IN NEWPORT - SENTENCED TO COMMUNITY ORDER AND ANIMAL BAN

Joshua Heard, born around 1997 and residing at 12 Sickert Close, St Julians, Newport NP19 7PJ, has been convicted of multiple criminal offenses related to animal cruelty and violence. The incident, which took place on June 29, 2024, involved Heard engaging in an alcohol-fueled altercation during which he physically assaulted two dogs by punching and hitting them.

It remains unclear whether the dogs pictured alongside Heard are the same animals he assaulted, as their identities and current conditions have not been confirmed. Heard, a figure well-known to local law enforcement authorities in Newport, has a history of owning several dogs, though their current whereabouts and fate are not documented or publicly known.

Heard admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, specifically relating to the two unnamed dogs involved in the incident. His admissions also included charges of assault by beating, assaulting a police officer, criminal damage, and a public order offense. The incident drew significant attention due to Heard’s prior notoriety and the nature of the offenses committed.

Following his guilty plea, the court handed down a sentence that includes a two-year community order. As part of this sentence, Heard is required to participate in 35 days of rehabilitation activities, which are aimed at addressing alcohol misuse and promoting behavioral change. Additionally, he must undergo alcohol treatment and be subject to ongoing monitoring to prevent future incidents.

Furthermore, Heard was ordered to pay £185 in compensation and legal costs. A notable aspect of his sentence is a two-year ban on keeping any animals, which will remain in effect until July 2026. This measure is intended to prevent any future harm to animals and to ensure public safety.

The case has been reported by the South Wales Argus, highlighting ongoing concerns about animal welfare and violence in the Newport area.