MARK MCGREGOR OF POLBETH SENTENCED FOR BRUTAL DOG BEATING IN WEST CALDER

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Mark McGregor, a resident of Polbeth, West Calder, was found guilty of subjecting a young dog to a series of savage and inhumane beatings during the year 2021. Born around 1988 and living on Langside Crescent, McGregor's cruelty towards the innocent animal, a seven-month-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier named Murdo, has led to serious legal consequences.

According to reports, McGregor inflicted multiple severe injuries on Murdo, leaving the dog with large, swollen lumps on his head. The brutal attacks left the young pup visibly distressed and physically harmed. The incident came to light when witnesses observed McGregor violently striking Murdo in his back garden. Concerned by the apparent abuse, these witnesses promptly reported the matter to the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA).

On March 5, 2021, SSPCA inspectors responded swiftly to the reports and visited McGregor’s residence to investigate the allegations. The inspection was described as involving very graphic and serious evidence of animal cruelty. Upon arrival, the inspectors found Murdo suffering from significant head injuries, with visible swelling and signs of previous beatings. The dog was also visibly terrified of McGregor, exhibiting fearful behavior such as cowering and urinating whenever he approached.

Recognizing the severity of the situation, the SSPCA officers immediately seized Murdo from McGregor’s property and transported him to a veterinary clinic for a thorough examination. The veterinary assessment confirmed the injuries reported by witnesses, revealing trauma consistent with the brutal assault. Murdo’s condition was critical, but thanks to prompt veterinary care and ongoing treatment at an SSPCA rescue and rehoming center, he gradually recovered.

Murdo’s recovery was aided by the dedicated staff at the SSPCA facility, and he was eventually rehomed to a loving family. The organization expressed relief that the dog had survived and was now in a safe environment, free from the threat of further harm. Inspector Fiona Thorburn of the SSPCA commented on the case, emphasizing the importance of intervention in such cases of animal cruelty. She recounted that when they visited McGregor’s home, Murdo approached them wagging his tail and displaying friendly behavior, yet he was visibly scared of McGregor, cowering and urinating when the offender drew near.

Inspector Thorburn further explained that veterinary examinations confirmed the injuries were consistent with the witnesses’ reports, including a large lump on Murdo’s head. She highlighted the importance of swift action, stating that Murdo was removed under section 32 of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 to ensure his safety and receive medical attention.

Following the investigation, McGregor pleaded guilty to the charge of striking his dog. As a result, he was sentenced to a 108-day restriction of liberty order and was disqualified from owning, keeping, or working with animals for the next ten years. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness of the cruelty inflicted upon Murdo and underscores the legal system’s stance against animal abuse in Scotland.

In addition to the restrictions, McGregor received a ten-year ban on any involvement with animals, ensuring he cannot own or care for animals during this period. The SSPCA and local authorities hope that such measures serve as a deterrent to others who might consider harming animals. The organization also encourages the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of animal cruelty by calling their confidential helpline at 03000 999 999. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable creatures from abuse in communities like Polbeth and West Calder.