KENNETH KIERO WADE FROM HETTON-LE-HOLE AND MELSONBY INVOLVED IN HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY CASE

Kenneth Kieron Wade, a 29-year-old resident of Mardale Street in Hetton-le-Hole, has been sentenced to a two-year prison term after being convicted of serious animal cruelty offenses. The charges stem from an incident that took place in North Yorkshire in January 2023, where Wade was apprehended alongside 39-year-old Stephen Thomas Rose.

Police officers conducting routine patrols in Melsonby stopped the pair and, during the investigation, discovered disturbing evidence of animal abuse. The officers found injured dogs in their possession, along with a muddy spade, which raised immediate concerns about the nature of their activities. Further inspection of the area revealed a dug-up badger sett, additional spades, and the carcass of a badly mauled badger, indicating a brutal attack.

The investigation uncovered that Wade and Rose had been involved in the killing of the badger, which was reportedly forced into a fight with their dogs. Both men admitted in court to the charges of killing the badger and disturbing its sett. Rose also pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to dogs and inflicting grievous bodily harm in a separate incident.

PC Hannah Lancaster, who led the investigation, described the injuries inflicted on the animals as 'nothing short of horrifying.' She expressed her disbelief that anyone could witness such suffering and remain indifferent. The case has garnered significant attention due to the brutality involved.

As part of their sentencing, Wade was given a two-year prison sentence and was also banned from keeping dogs indefinitely. The dogs involved in the incident have since been rehomed, ensuring they are no longer subjected to such cruelty. The case highlights ongoing concerns about animal welfare and the need for strict enforcement of laws against cruelty and abuse.