CONOR WARD OF CARNLOUGH INVOLVED IN HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY CASE IN BALLYMENA

Conor Ward, born around 1992 and residing on Cranny Avenue in Carnlough, Ballymena, became the focus of a deeply disturbing animal cruelty investigation that culminated in court proceedings in 2024. The case revealed a series of neglectful and barbaric acts committed by Ward, who abandoned five dogs at his property, leaving them to suffer and ultimately perish from starvation and violence.

In a court hearing that described the circumstances as 'truly harrowing,' Ward admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to several unnamed bull terrier-type dogs. The situation escalated to the point where the dogs, left without food or water, engaged in violent fights with each other. Tragically, one of the dogs was killed during these altercations, and the other animals resorted to feeding on the carcass in a desperate attempt to survive.

The cruelty came to light in November 2020, when animal welfare officers from Mid and East Antrim Borough Council responded to a report about dogs fighting in the backyard of Ward’s vacant property. Prior to this, in April 2020, Ward had shared an image of one of his dogs, an English bull terrier, on Facebook, which later became part of the evidence against him. The property itself was found to be in a state of neglect, with no food or adequate shelter, and only mail in Ward’s name indicating recent occupancy.

Upon investigation, officers discovered the remains of a dead Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Staffy) in the rear concrete yard. The dog had sustained multiple puncture wounds on its neck and back, and it had died from significant trauma to the upper respiratory tract. One of its hind legs was notably missing, having been eaten by the other dogs in their frantic struggle for survival. Nearby, a female Staffy was coaxed out of a dilapidated kennel, revealing fresh, bleeding wounds on her face and nose. She was visibly underweight and frightened, hiding in her enclosure.

Three other dogs, all Staffies, and the remaining English bull terrier, were found in similarly poor condition. They were severely underweight, with no access to food, water, or clean bedding, and bore fresh and old wounds of various ages. One of the Staffies was observed eating the carcass of the dead dog, indicating the extreme starvation and desperation faced by the animals. Another Staffy was found with a body score of just 2 out of 9, with bleeding puncture wounds on her face. The English bull terrier was discovered in a solitary pen, bearing scars on its front feet, nose, head, and carpus, evidence of past injuries.

Tragically, this young dog did not survive, and its remains were also consumed by the other dogs. Fortunately, all surviving animals were rescued, treated, and eventually rehomed, ensuring they received the care and attention they desperately needed.

During the court proceedings, Ward’s defense lawyer, Grant Powles, explained that his client had asked a relative to look after the dogs due to personal issues he was facing at the time. He also mentioned that Ward had turned to illicit drugs, including cocaine, which may have contributed to his neglectful behavior. The court was told that Ward’s circumstances were complex, and his actions were influenced by these personal struggles.

District Judge Nigel Broderick addressed the court, emphasizing the severity of the case. He stated that it was no surprise that, left without food or water, the dogs resorted to fighting, resulting in the death of one Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the starvation of the others, who then ate the carcass. The judge described the case as 'the most serious and harrowing example of animal cruelty' he had encountered, citing the significant trauma to the dog’s respiratory system as a key factor in its death.

Initially, Ward was sentenced to six months in jail, a measure intended to punish him and serve as a deterrent to others. However, he was released on bail while appealing the sentence. The court also ordered him to pay costs totaling £5,486.62 and imposed a 20-year ban on owning or transporting any animals.

As of 12 February 2024, the appeal hearing resulted in a change of sentence. The custodial sentence was replaced with a two-year probation period and 100 hours of community service. Judge Gerard McNamara explained that while the case was distressing and involved cruelty to defenseless animals, Ward’s actions were deemed passive rather than active cruelty. The court also took into account Ward’s guilty pleas, remorse, and personal circumstances. The 20-year ban on keeping animals was upheld, ensuring Ward would be prohibited from owning or handling animals for the foreseeable future.