KIERON WADE OF HOUGHTON-LE-SPRING SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOGS IN HETTON-LE-HOLE

In a case that has shocked the local community, Kieron Wade, a resident of Houghton-le-Spring, was convicted of severe animal cruelty involving four dogs found in deplorable conditions at his home in Hetton-le-Hole. The incident came to light in April 2017 when authorities executed a warrant at Wade’s residence on Coalbank Road, uncovering a disturbing scene of neglect and abuse.

Wade, who is known locally as Kieron Wade, admitted to causing suffering and neglecting the basic needs of two terrier-type dogs and two lurcher-type dogs. The investigation revealed that the dogs had been subjected to inhumane treatment, with one terrier named Musto suffering from grievous injuries to his face and jaw, injuries consistent with being used for hunting purposes. The extent of Musto’s injuries was particularly distressing, with most of his lower jaw missing, making it difficult for him to eat. Fortunately, after undergoing surgery, Musto has begun to recover, gaining weight and showing signs of improvement.

The conditions in which Wade kept his dogs were described as utterly disgusting and unhygienic. The RSPCA chief inspector Mark Gent provided a detailed account of the scene, stating, “These dogs were living in absolute filth. Three of them were confined to a pen which was covered in diarrhoea, some of which had gone mouldy, and was swimming in urine. It smelled horrendous.”

He further explained that Musto’s injuries were severe, and the living conditions contributed to the dogs’ suffering. The other two dogs, of the same breeds, were found in similarly appalling circumstances. One of these was kept in a kennel in Wade’s yard, where evidence suggested it was tethered at times. The yard was covered in faeces, and the dog had recently been sick, indicating poor health and neglect.

The two terrier-type dogs were taken into the care of the RSPCA and have since been successfully rehomed, bringing relief to their rescuers and the community. The two lurcher-type dogs remain in RSPCA custody, with efforts underway to find them suitable new homes. Wade’s actions and the conditions of the dogs drew widespread condemnation, highlighting the importance of animal welfare laws.

In court, Wade was sentenced to 12 weeks in jail, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to complete 15 days of rehabilitation activities. Additionally, he was required to perform 150 hours of unpaid work, with total costs and charges amounting to £415. As part of his punishment, Wade was disqualified from keeping any animals for a period of 10 years, a measure aimed at preventing future neglect or abuse. The case has served as a stark reminder of the cruelty that can occur behind closed doors and the ongoing need for vigilance and enforcement to protect vulnerable animals.