RICHARD KELLY FROM DUMBARTON FACES COURT OVER ANIMAL ABUSE AND VIOLENCE INCIDENTS

Richard John Kelly, born on July 3, 1990, and residing at 29 Merkins Avenue, Bellsmyre, Dumbarton G82 3EA, has been at the center of a series of disturbing incidents involving animal cruelty and violations of court orders. His case has drawn significant attention from local authorities and animal welfare organizations alike.

Police officers, along with inspectors from the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Scottish SPCA), responded to reports of Kelly's alleged mistreatment of animals at his residence. The reports detailed that Kelly kept two dogs and three cats in conditions described as extremely unsanitary and neglectful. Upon entering his home, authorities were met with an overwhelming stench of feces and urine, which immediately indicated severe neglect.

The interior of Kelly’s residence was found to be in a deplorable state. Each room was filthy and disorderly, with fecal matter scattered across the floors and torn carpets adding to the chaos. The environment was infested with tens of dozens of flies, further emphasizing the neglect and poor living conditions for the animals.

Kelly’s actions extended beyond neglect. He was also found to have been violent towards at least one of his dogs. The incident that led to his arrest involved Kelly ignoring a court order that prohibited him from contacting his former partner. This non-harassment order, issued in December 2019 for a period of three years after Kelly sent threatening emails to the woman, was still in effect at the time of the incident.

On September 13, 2020, Kelly appeared at his ex-partner’s home under the pretense of offering a kitten from a litter. He was allowed inside and spent the night there, engaging in computer gaming. The following day, both Kelly and his ex-partner consumed alcohol, which escalated into a heated verbal argument around 6:15 pm.

During the altercation, Kelly left the property while holding a lead attached to one of his dogs. Witnesses reported hearing the dog yelp in distress and saw Kelly in the yard with the animal cowering in the grass. Disturbingly, Kelly was observed kicking the dog. When a witness shouted for him to stop, Kelly responded dismissively, saying, “F*** sake, I’ve only hit him once.”

The police managed to trace Kelly the following day. The Scottish SPCA conducted welfare checks on the animals, confirming their distress and poor conditions. Sheriff William Gallacher expressed concern over Kelly’s ability to adhere to the court’s community payback order (CPO). He emphasized the seriousness of the case, reminding Kelly that the non-harassment order was still in effect and that any further mistreatment of animals or violations could result in lengthy custody.

During the court proceedings, Sheriff Gallacher warned Kelly about the gravity of his actions, stating, “Your treatment in relation to animals is horrifying. To hit any animal because you have had too much to drink will not do.” He also made it clear that any breach of the court orders would lead to imprisonment. Kelly’s progress was scheduled for review on February 3, 2021.

Laura McIntyre, Chief Inspector at the Scottish SPCA, confirmed that their organization assisted Police Scotland in ensuring the animals’ welfare. The animals are now in their care at a rescue and rehoming center, receiving the necessary treatment and attention.

As part of his sentencing, Kelly was ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work within 12 months, and he received a two-year supervision order involving social work. Additionally, he was banned from owning any animals for three years, a restriction that expired in November 2023. The case highlights ongoing concerns about animal cruelty and the importance of strict enforcement of court orders to prevent further harm.