Nine months jail for Derry man found guilty of dog cruelty

A man convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to a dog that was found partially buried in a Derry park has been jailed at the local Magistrate's Court today. 

Peter Toland (29) of Cornshell Fields in Derry was convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to an American Bull Terrier dog called Luna on March 15 this year.

He also was convicted of failing to take reasonable steps to ensure animal welfare was met on the same date in relation to other animals. 

During the contest earlier this year a vet had told the court that the animal had been subjected to months of neglect and had 'multiple injuries' including broken teeth, broken bones and the dog was emaciated. 

When found by a member of the public the dog had been partially buried with a lump of masonry placed on its head. 

The animal was in such a state that it had to be put down. 

When police attended Toland's address after he was identified as the owner of the dog they found other animals in a dog pound that showed signs of neglect. 

The court heard that there was no water or bedding and very little food for these animals. 

Passing sentence District Judge Ted Magill said that the offences were 'utterly despicable'. 

He said 'basic humanity' dictated that a duty of care was owed to animals in our care and in this case Toland had failed 'to carry out the most basic care.' 

The judge said that the animal had suffered months of abuse and it was for this he was passing sentence. 

He jailed Toland for nine months.

Speaking after today's sentencing of Peter Toland for animal cruelty offences, Ballyarnett Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector Ryan Robb said: “For so many people dogs are much loved and valued companions. 

“However, the level of neglect these animals suffered was appalling and despicable. No animal deserves to be treated in this way, and it is only right that anyone who behaves in this appalling way and commits these type of offences is held accountable and brought before the court.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the local community for their assistance with our investigation.”