ENFIELD MAN SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY AFTER HEARTBREAKING CCTV FOOTAGE
Reece Doherty, of Enfield, has been banned indefinitely from owning animals after CCTV footage captured him violently abusing his dog.The video footage prompted an investigation by the RSPCA and resulted in a prosecution.
At Barkingside Magistrates’ Court on 4 July, Doherty pleaded guilty to an animal welfare offence.
The footage reveals that on 26 September 2024, in a communal corridor, Doherty approached his Central Asian Shepherd, Cora.
He was seen lifting her by her front legs and forcefully throwing her down the corridor, followed by kicking her as she attempted to get up.
Another camera footage shows Doherty following her with a lit cigarette, then straddling her and reaching towards her shoulder, where a scar was later identified as being consistent with a cigarette burn.
An expert veterinary witness testified that the videos demonstrated Cora was subjected to a serious and prolonged physical attack, likely causing her significant pain.
Although no fractures were detected, the force used would have resulted in severe bruising and soft tissue injuries.
The veterinarian also noted that Cora would have experienced mental suffering due to fear and distress, which was apparent from her highly submissive behavior in the footage.
In mitigation, Doherty’s representatives stated he was suffering from mental illness and was not fully aware of his actions.
As a result, he received a ban on keeping animals and was ordered to pay costs of £280.
RSPCA Inspector Hannah Nixon, who led the investigation, said, “The footage shows what Cora experienced.
No animal deserves to be thrown, kicked or burnt.
We’d plead to all pet owners to always show animals kindness and to reach out for help if they are struggling with behavioral issues.” Nixon added, “It’s never acceptable to lose your temper and take it out on a defenceless animal.
They feel pain.” Cora is currently recovering at RSPCA Cornwall and is available for rehoming.
She is a one-year-old Central Asian Shepherd and is seeking a large home with a secure garden.
Inspector Nixon expressed hope that Cora will find a loving home where she can give and receive affection.
Images and video footage of the case are courtesy of the RSPCA.
