GEORGE MOFFAT AND KERRY RUSSELL FROM BAINSFORD, FALKIRK FACE JUSTICE OVER ANIMAL CRUELTY CASE

In a distressing case of animal neglect, George Moffat, born around 1998, and Kerry Russell, born approximately in 1976, both residents of Main Street in Bainsford, Falkirk, have been held accountable for their failure to provide proper care for their pets. The incident involved a dog named Banjo, whose severe neck wound went untreated for several days, ultimately leading to his euthanasia.

On January 31, 2019, Scottish SPCA inspector Robyn Gray visited the flat occupied by Moffat and Russell after receiving a report from a veterinarian. The vet had euthanised Banjo due to the extent of his injuries, which included a deep wound on his neck. Inspector Gray described the scene as appalling, noting that the property was heavily littered with debris, and the overpowering stench of stale urine permeated the air. Further inspection revealed faeces scattered across the premises, along with rubbish and litter strewn over the floors and surfaces.

At the property, authorities found a total of four cats and two dogs. During the investigation, it was established that one of the dogs did not belong to Moffat and Russell and was subsequently returned to its owner. All animals were examined by a veterinarian following their removal to ensure their welfare was not further compromised.

The case centered around the neglect of Banjo, whose owner, Moffat, claimed that the injury occurred after the dog ran into a bush on January 21. However, veterinary treatment was not sought until January 26, raising concerns about the delay in providing necessary medical attention. Both Moffat and Russell admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to Banjo by neglecting his health needs, particularly by failing to seek veterinary help for a chronic skin laceration and swelling on his head. They also acknowledged neglecting the needs of their other animals by exposing them to hazardous household debris, including spilt paint, urine, faeces, and knives, and by confining them without access to appropriate outdoor areas for urination and defecation, contrary to the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.

Defense lawyers for the pair explained that financial difficulties and transportation issues contributed to the delay in seeking veterinary care for Banjo. Nonetheless, both Moffat and Russell accepted that more should have been done to ensure the dog's well-being.

Inspector Gray emphasized the severity of the neglect, stating, “This was a severe case of animal cruelty which resulted in Banjo suffering unnecessarily, ultimately leading to his euthanasia on veterinary advice. We are pleased that justice has been served, but this case highlights the need for tougher and more consistent penalties for animal cruelty. The suffering Banjo endured could have been prevented if veterinary attention had been sought sooner.”

As part of their sentencing, both Moffat and Russell received 135 hours of unpaid work and were banned from keeping any animals for a period of ten years, a ban that will expire in April 2029. The case underscores ongoing concerns about animal welfare in the Falkirk area and the importance of prompt veterinary intervention in cases of suspected neglect.