DANIELLE AGNEW AND RYAN O’NEILL FROM CARRICKFERGUS ABANDONED FOUR DOGS AND LEFT THEM TO STARVE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland, two individuals, Danielle Agnew and Ryan O’Neill, have been found guilty of neglecting and causing unnecessary suffering to four innocent dogs. The incident came to light after reports of abandoned animals on their property, prompting an investigation by local authorities.

Danielle Agnew, born February 1993, and Ryan O’Neill, born 30 July 1990, both formerly residing on Larne Road in Carrickfergus, faced charges under the Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 2011. The charges stemmed from their failure to provide proper care for the animals, which included an American bulldog-type dog, two husky-type dogs, and a chihuahua-type dog. The animals had been left to fend for themselves, with no adequate food or water, leading to severe suffering.

The case was brought to the attention of authorities after a concerned member of the public reported the abandoned animals. An animal welfare officer from the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council responded to the scene and found the dogs in a dire state. A veterinarian who examined the animals confirmed that each one, including a three-month-old puppy, was suffering from starvation. The vet stated that the dogs' condition was so severe that they would have died if they had not been rescued in time.

Following the investigation, Agnew and O’Neill pleaded guilty to the charges, admitting to causing unnecessary suffering to the four dogs. Their actions have been widely condemned, highlighting the importance of animal welfare and the responsibilities of pet owners.

In sentencing, the court imposed a four-month prison sentence, suspended for a period, meaning they would not serve time unless they committed further offenses. Additionally, both individuals were ordered to pay costs totaling £1,657. They were also disqualified from keeping or caring for any animals for a period of three years, although this disqualification has now expired.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of animal neglect and the ongoing efforts by local authorities to protect vulnerable animals in the Carrickfergus area and beyond.