JOHN MCLELLAN'S BRUTAL ATTACK ON DOG BAM IN MIDDLESBROUGH SHOCKS COMMUNITY

John Jason McLellan, a resident of Delarden Road in the Pallister Park area of Middlesbrough, has been convicted of a heinous act of animal cruelty that has left the local community appalled and distressed. The incident, which took place in June 2016, involved McLellan subjecting a defenseless dog named Bam to a brutal and prolonged beating that lasted approximately 30 minutes.

McLellan, known locally and with a criminal history that includes convictions for heroin dealing, assault, and theft, was seen to have inflicted severe injuries on Bam, a pet dog owned by Denise Jaffray. The attack was so violent that Bam urinated blood, and the injuries sustained were comparable to those typically seen in severe road traffic accidents. Witnesses reported hearing continuous thuds and the dog’s yelping through the walls of nearby homes, indicating the relentless nature of the assault.

According to the RSPCA, which prosecuted McLellan, this was not an impulsive or isolated act of violence. Instead, it was a sustained and deliberate attack. The organization emphasized that Bam was unable to sit comfortably afterward and was evidently in significant pain. Veterinary examinations confirmed the severity of the injuries, which included trauma to the dog’s testicles and abdomen. During the check-up, bubbles of air were also detected, suggesting internal damage.

Further investigations revealed that Bam’s injuries were consistent with blunt force trauma, such as kicking. The extent of the injuries indicated a level of violence that went beyond a simple altercation, highlighting the cruelty inflicted upon the animal.

Despite the attack occurring over four years ago, Bam continued to receive veterinary treatment well into October 2016, underscoring the lasting impact of the abuse. McLellan pleaded guilty on October 14, 2016, to causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, acknowledging his role in the brutal assault.

In addition to the criminal charges, it was noted that another dog belonging to Bam’s owner, Denise Jaffray, had gone missing earlier in 2016 and was never recovered, adding a layer of tragedy to the case.

McLellan was sentenced to 12 weeks in custody, though this sentence was suspended for 18 months. He was also ordered to complete a 30-day rehabilitation program and pay costs of £500. Furthermore, he was banned from keeping animals for a period of ten years, a restriction that will expire in December 2026. The case has sparked outrage among animal welfare advocates and residents of Middlesbrough, who continue to demand stricter penalties for animal cruelty.