WILLENHALL, BILSTON AND BIRMINGHAM OFFENDERS CHAD WORGAN, JAKE HIGGS AND THOMAS KNOX INVOLVED IN HORRIFIC BIRD CRUELTY CASE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local communities of Willenhall, Bilston, and Birmingham, three young men—Chad Worgan, Jake Higgs, and Thomas Knox—were found guilty of heinous acts of animal cruelty involving the torture and killing of numerous rare birds. The incident unfolded after the trio, along with a 16-year-old youth from Erdington, unlawfully entered an aviary located in Brownhills, Walsall, which was owned by Mr. Lee Williams. The group stole a collection of valuable and rare birds, including jays, finches, doves, budgerigars, quails, and pigeons, and then transported them in sacks and containers to a location in Goscote, Walsall, known as Dolphin House.

Once inside the premises, the birds were spilled onto the landing area, where the brutal abuse commenced. Police investigations and CCTV footage revealed the horrifying extent of the cruelty. Many of the birds were already dead at this point, but the footage showed the remaining birds being subjected to extreme suffering. One of the offenders was captured smirking as he appeared to aim a kick at an innocent bird, while others were seen scattered across the floor, visibly distressed and injured.

The footage further depicted the birds being chased by a dog, which belonged to Knox, and being forcibly jammed into drawers or squeezed to death. Some of the birds were even cruelly posted through letterboxes or dropped through people's windows, adding a layer of malicious intent to the crime. Witnesses and prosecutors described the scene as sickening and heartbreaking.

Chad Worgan admitted to a charge of receiving stolen goods and causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, specifically acknowledging that he kicked a pigeon during the incident. Witnesses noted a disturbing 'sick grin' across his face as he appeared to enjoy the act of cruelty, grabbing a perched bird and visibly squeezing it. The cruelty was further exacerbated by Knox, who allowed a dog into the flat, which terrorized the remaining birds. Knox's behavior during the trial was noted for his frequent giggling with his co-accused in the dock, which drew criticism from the court.

Thomas Knox denied causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal and receiving stolen goods, as did the 16-year-old. However, the magistrates found all four individuals guilty of the charges after a detailed trial. Knox was convicted of multiple offenses, including causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, receiving stolen goods, common assault, and using threatening words or behavior—specifically towards a dog warden and housing staff when informed that his dog was to be taken away. Knox's defense argued that he was a vulnerable young man suffering from ADHD and autism.

Jake Higgs, who also faced charges, failed to appear in court, leading to a warrant being issued for his arrest. The chairman of the bench, Mr. Bob Thomas, emphasized that the actions of the youths represented a 'joint enterprise,' with CCTV footage clearly showing their collective involvement in the cruelty inflicted upon the birds.

Mr. Williams, a dedicated breeder of rare birds, had spent years building his collection, which included various species such as jays, finches, doves, and pigeons. The prosecution, led by Maggie Meakin, highlighted the financial impact of the crime, stating that replacing the stolen birds would cost approximately £1,500. She added that Mr. Williams could not afford to replace the birds nor could he claim insurance to cover the loss.

Sentencing saw Worgan and Knox sentenced to six months in jail, along with orders to pay compensation to Mr. Williams. The 16-year-old received an 18-month rehabilitation order aimed at addressing his involvement. As for Jake Higgs, his sentencing details remain pending due to his failure to appear in court. The case has left a lasting impact on the community, highlighting the severity of animal cruelty and the importance of holding offenders accountable.