DEREK WALLACE BRUTALLY ATTACKS DOG IN BROMPTON REGIS - SENTENCED IN DULVERTON

Derek Raymond Wallace, a resident of 4 Haddon View in Brompton Regis, Dulverton, with the postcode TA22 9NW, was captured on CCTV engaging in a violent assault against a defenseless dog. The incident, which took place in the quiet village of Brompton Regis, has shocked the local community and prompted a serious legal response.

In the footage, Wallace is seen holding a small, seven-year-old terrier named Darby. The video shows him lifting Darby into his arms before abruptly tipping him over. As Wallace drops the dog, Darby falls but manages to catch himself on his lead, which prevents him from hitting the ground directly. However, the fall leaves Darby vulnerable, and he is seen crouching or lying on the ground immediately afterward.

The disturbing sequence continues as Wallace, partly obscured by parked cars, turns his attention back to Darby. He is holding a torch, which he uses to illuminate the scene, and for a few seconds, the image is obscured by the light. Once visible again, Wallace is seen to kick Darby twice on the right side of his head and neck, actions that caused obvious pain and distress to the animal.

Fortunately, Darby survived the attack and was subsequently rehomed. The RSPCA, which investigated the incident, confirmed that the footage clearly showed Wallace’s actions inflicted pain, potential injury, and fear upon the dog. Inspector Jo Daniel, who led the investigation for the RSPCA, stated: “A vet who watched the footage confirmed that the actions of Wallace in the footage had caused Darby to suffer, both by causing pain and potential injury, and also by causing fear and distress.”

During court proceedings, it was noted that Wallace’s behavior was an isolated incident. It was also revealed that he was under the influence of alcohol at the time, which he struggles with. As part of the legal outcome, Darby was placed into the care of the RSPCA at the time of the investigation and has since been adopted into a new loving home.

Wallace was sentenced to a six-month curfew order, required to pay £690 in costs and charges, and was subject to an unspecified ban on keeping animals. The case has drawn attention to animal cruelty issues within the region and highlights the importance of animal welfare enforcement in Somerset and beyond.