ROBERT NEWLAND OF BRANSHOLME SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOG IN HULL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Robert Newland, a resident of Bransholme, was found guilty of severe animal cruelty involving his four-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier, Capone. The incident unfolded in Hull, where Newland’s neglect led to the tragic death of the dog due to starvation and subsequent refeeding syndrome.

Newland, born around 1978, resided at Flat 17 Salinger House, 2 Logan Close, Bransholme, Hull HU7 4FU. The case came to light after the vet clinic where Capone was taken for cremation expressed concern over the dog’s condition. The veterinary staff, noticing the dog’s extreme emaciation, contacted the RSPCA, which launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Capone’s death.

During the trial, it was revealed that Newland had transported Capone’s remains in a plastic storage box, wrapped in a sheet. An examination by a veterinarian described the dog as “severely emaciated,” with post-mortem findings indicating that Capone had been starved for a prolonged period. The pathology report suggested that the dog’s death was likely caused by refeeding syndrome, a dangerous condition that can occur when a severely malnourished individual or animal begins to eat again, leading to rapid metabolic and electrolyte shifts that can be fatal.

A veterinary expert reviewing the case explained that Capone had endured at least two to three weeks of suffering, with some evidence pointing to neglect lasting between one and two months. The report also noted the presence of pressure sores and signs of trauma, indicating a prolonged period of suffering and neglect.

At the trial, Newland denied causing Capone’s suffering, claiming that he had been feeding the dog and that the pet appeared healthy just days before he took him to the vet. He also alleged that Capone had been poisoned. However, the court was presented with overwhelming evidence, including the veterinarian’s findings and the post-mortem report, which proved that Newland’s claims were false.

District Judge Mark Daley delivered the verdict, stating that the evidence was “unimpeachable” and clearly demonstrated that Newland had caused Capone “very significant suffering over a protracted period.” As a result, Newland was convicted of animal cruelty.

RSPCA inspector Claire Mitchell commented on the case, describing it as “very upsetting” to investigate. She emphasized that Newland did not accept any responsibility for Capone’s suffering, instead attempting to blame others and insisting that the dog looked fine shortly before passing away. Mitchell highlighted the overwhelming evidence of neglect that spanned weeks to months.

In sentencing, Robert Newland received a prison term of 20 weeks. Additionally, he was banned from keeping any animals for five years, a restriction that will remain in effect until March 2028. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect in the Hull area.