THOMAS FLETCHER SENTENCED IN READING FOR BESTIALITY WITH SHEEPDOGS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Reading, a young man named Thomas Fletcher was convicted of engaging in sexual acts with a dog, specifically Rosie, a sheepdog belonging to his foster family. The incident took place in March of the previous year at a residence in Eton Wick, where Fletcher was staying. The crime was uncovered after his foster mother grew suspicious of her two dogs' unusual behavior, noticing that they appeared frightened and anxious around Fletcher.

During the investigation, police discovered that Fletcher had broken into a locked bedroom in the house, where the two dogs, including a retriever-collie cross named Ralph, were confined. It was reported that Ralph was forced to witness the disturbing act, which was recorded on a voice-activated dictaphone left in the room. The recording captured Fletcher pouncing on Rosie, revealing the nature of his misconduct.

Fletcher, who was 19 years old at the time, maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings. However, after a trial held in March of this year, he was found guilty of two counts of bestiality. The police took both dogs for medical examinations, and veterinary reports indicated that Rosie was visibly terrified, with dilated pupils, suggesting she had been subjected to trauma. Medical swabs taken from Fletcher immediately after his arrest showed a DNA match with both dogs, confirming his involvement.

Following his conviction, Fletcher was advised to leave the Reading YMCA where he was residing and also to transfer from Henley College for his own safety. He has since relocated to Gloucester. The prosecution, led by Alexander Mills, also emphasized that Fletcher is now prohibited from owning, keeping, or working with dogs, as part of the court's orders.

During sentencing, Judge Charles Elly addressed Fletcher directly, stating, “You were convicted by a jury of two counts of sexual intercourse with an animal. Both took place on the afternoon of March 19, last year, when you were left alone in the home by Mr. and Mrs. Sharp. The dogs had been confined in the bedroom due to concerns about your behavior, and a digital audio recorder was left running. Although there were two dogs in the room, the offences were only committed against Rosie. Your actions have destroyed an opportunity that was given to you.”

The court also heard that Fletcher had previously attempted to take his own life by slashing his neck, and he warned that he would kill himself if he were to be imprisoned. As part of his sentence, Fletcher received a two-year supervision order, which includes a requirement to participate in 60 days of education and training activities. Additionally, he was issued an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO) that bans him from owning, keeping, or working with any dogs in the future.