Father-of-three, 32, who left five puppies for dead and was cruel to three other dogs including an XL Bully is jailed
A 32-year-old father of three from Blyth, Northumberland has been jailed after admitting 21 charges of animal cruelty against eight dogs, five of which were puppies left for dead. Michael Deas's case highlights the severity of animal neglect prosecutions in the UK, with three of the dogs suffering such extensive harm that they had to be put down.
Deas was sentenced to eight months in prison after the court heard he starved a litter of Cane Corso puppies, leaving them severely malnourished and denying them adequate exercise. He was also convicted over cruelty towards three other dogs, including an XL Bully, in a case a judge described as involving neglect so severe it proved fatal for several animals.
- Northumberland man jailed eight months for cruelty to eight dogs
- Five puppies left starving and malnourished; three dogs died
- Admitted 21 animal cruelty charges including towards an XL Bully
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In England, people responsible for animals must provide for their welfare, including suitable food, water, shelter and care. Animal cruelty cases can be prosecuted in court, and offences may lead to prison sentences or bans on keeping animals.
The RSPCA and local authorities investigate concerns about animal welfare, while courts consider the evidence and decide on penalties. Cane Corsos are a large breed of dog, and “XL Bully” refers to a type of dog covered by specific rules in England and Wales. The case concerns the treatment of several dogs and the consequences of serious neglect.