ROBERT KING FROM MOTHERWELL CONVICTED FOR BRUTAL ANIMAL FIGHTS AND BADGER BAITING IN SCOTLAND

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community and animal welfare advocates across Scotland, Robert King, a resident of Motherwell, has been found guilty of heinous animal cruelty crimes involving illegal badger baiting and dog fighting activities. Born on 22 November 1986 and residing at 66 Scotia Street, Motherwell ML1 3LD, King’s actions have brought to light the brutal underground world of organized animal fighting that persists in certain areas of the country.

King, who operates as a self-employed landscape gardener under the business name R&R Landscaping, was involved in training and forcing his dogs into violent confrontations with wild animals, including badgers. Evidence uncovered during police investigations revealed that he had developed and used specialized chin straps—an unusual device previously unseen in Scotland but known to be used in Italy—designed to protect his dogs during attacks on badger setts. These straps, intended to prevent injuries as the dogs tore into underground burrows, ultimately failed, leading to severe injuries for his animals.

The police raid was conducted near Carluke Park and Ride in South Lanarkshire, where officers discovered two Jack Russell terriers wearing tracking collars, both suffering from horrific injuries. One of these dogs had a metal face guard fitted to her, and tragically, her injuries were so severe that she had to be euthanized on humane grounds. The investigation revealed that King had forced his dogs into underground tunnels to bait a nursing badger, with the larger lurcher-type dogs attacking the animal in its sett. The scene was further evidence of the brutal tactics employed by King, including significant digging activities aimed at unearthing badgers and provoking fights.

Additional evidence found at the scene included spades and other specialized baiting equipment, indicating a systematic approach to animal baiting. Police also located a black lurcher-type dog in King’s vehicle, which bore scars consistent with fighting injuries. The Scottish SPCA took custody of this dog, and subsequent examination confirmed the injuries were related to fighting activities. When questioned by authorities, King attempted to justify his actions by claiming he was rescuing a dog being attacked by a badger, a claim strongly refuted by the evidence and the testimonies of animal welfare officials.

The Scottish SPCA’s investigations uncovered a thriving family of badgers, including young cubs, which had been protected by their mothers during the attack. Undercover inspectors from the Scottish SPCA’s Special Investigations Unit observed the badgers emerging from their sett after the chaos, highlighting the resilience of these peaceful creatures. An SIU inspector emphasized the danger and cruelty involved in such activities, noting that badgers are generally non-aggressive and will only fight when cornered or protecting their young. The inspector also pointed out the risks posed to dogs involved in such fights, especially when sent into badger setts with nursing females.

King’s involvement in illegal animal fighting was met with strong condemnation from authorities and animal welfare groups. The case underscored the importance of collaboration between police and the Scottish SPCA in tackling organized animal cruelty. The public awareness of badger baiting and dog fighting has been increasing, and this conviction serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to eradicate these abhorrent crimes.

In sentencing, Robert King received a seven-month tagging order, was ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid work, and was banned from keeping any animals for life. The case has been widely reported in the Daily Record and the Herald, bringing attention to the cruelty inflicted upon innocent animals and the importance of vigilant law enforcement and community awareness in preventing such crimes.