MICHAEL SMITH AND GWEN KERR SHOCK DEWSBURY WITH HORRIFIC CRIMES INVOLVING ANIMAL ABUSE

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the Dewsbury community, Michael Smith, born around 1953 and residing on Princess Road, Chickenley WF12 8RA, along with Gwen Kerr, born approximately in 1962 and living on Queen Street, Chickenley, were found guilty of heinous charges related to animal abuse and sexual misconduct involving a dog.

According to court proceedings, Smith was convicted of encouraging his girlfriend, Kerr, to engage in sexual acts with a bull mastiff. The case revealed that Smith had secretly recorded two separate videos, each lasting approximately four minutes, capturing Kerr in sexual acts with the dog. These videos were produced and filmed by Smith himself, highlighting the disturbing nature of the offenses.

The Leeds Crown Court heard that Smith not only engaged in these acts but also used and exploited Kerr, who was reportedly under the influence of drugs and subjected to abusive circumstances. During the trial, it was revealed that Smith took the videos to social services in May 2016, claiming he was concerned about Kerr’s welfare. He alleged that a drug dealer had been supplying her with amphetamines and that she had been coerced into working as a sex worker, which added a layer of complexity to the case.

Throughout the trial, Smith denied making the videos and insisted he was unaware of how additional footage appeared on the camcorder. He also denied charges of aiding and abetting, counseling, or procuring sexual intercourse with an animal, as well as possessing extreme pornographic images. Despite his denials, the jury found him guilty after a thorough trial.

Gwen Kerr, on her part, pleaded guilty to having sex with an animal, acknowledging her involvement in the disturbing acts. Prosecutor Mark McKone emphasized the severity of the case, stating, “This defendant (Kerr) effectively had sexual intercourse with a dog. Mr. Smith took a video film of that dog.” He further explained that the offense related to extreme pornographic images could carry a maximum sentence of two years in prison.

It was also revealed that Michael Smith had a criminal history, with ten previous convictions spanning forty offenses, although none of a similar nature to this case. The court was informed of the gravity of the crimes committed and the impact on the community.

In sentencing, Judge James Spencer QC expressed his disapproval of the defendants’ actions. He stated, “I’m quite satisfied that you, Michael Smith, used and abused your girlfriend Gwen Kerr to be involved in this activity.” Smith was sentenced to a 12-month custodial sentence, which was suspended for 12 months, meaning he would not serve time immediately but would be under supervision. Kerr received a conditional discharge for 12 months, with a stern warning not to repeat her actions.

Additionally, both defendants were ordered to pay financial surcharges—Smith was required to pay £115, while Kerr was ordered to pay £20. The case has left a lasting impact on the Dewsbury community, highlighting the importance of addressing animal cruelty and abuse with the utmost seriousness.