NAKITA COULTER FROM CARRICKFERGUS SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY INVOLVING GHOSTIE

In a distressing case that has drawn significant attention from animal welfare advocates, Nakita Coulter, also known as Nakita Gilmore, of Beechfield Avenue in Carrickfergus, was found guilty of neglecting her pet dog, Ghostie, leading to severe starvation and emaciation. The incident, which took place in Carrickfergus, culminated in Coulter’s conviction by the Laganside magistrates on the 15th of March, 2016.

According to court records, Coulter was charged under the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, with the specific allegation that she failed to provide adequate care and ensure the well-being of Ghostie. Despite her denial of the allegations, evidence presented in court included photographs taken on the day the dog was discovered, revealing Ghostie’s skeletal frame and prominent bones, a stark visual testament to the neglect she endured.

The case was brought forward by the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, which has been actively involved in animal welfare enforcement within the region. The images of Ghostie, showing her in a state of extreme emaciation, underscored the severity of the neglect and prompted public concern over animal cruelty cases in the area.

David Wilson, a spokesperson for the United Kingdom Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA), expressed his views on the court’s decision, suggesting that the punishment handed down might not be sufficiently deterrent. Wilson stated, “The USPCA would regard this as being a case where the sentence is very lenient and we feel the council welfare should look again at the court’s decision and if possible appeal the sentence.”

He further explained that the maximum penalty for such an offence could reach up to five years in prison, although he clarified that he was not necessarily advocating for such a harsh sentence in this particular case. Wilson emphasized that, to serve as an effective deterrent, sentences should reflect the gravity of the cruelty inflicted. Additionally, he pointed out that the court has the authority to impose a ban on Coulter from keeping animals in the future, which could prevent similar incidents.

Despite the severity of the neglect, Coulter received a conditional discharge and was ordered to pay £366 in council costs. Notably, the court did not impose a ban on her from owning or caring for animals, a decision that has sparked debate among animal welfare groups and the public alike.

In contrast to her previous neglect, Ghostie has since been rescued and is now thriving in a caring new home, a testament to the importance of intervention and proper animal care. The case continues to highlight the ongoing issues surrounding animal cruelty and the need for stricter enforcement and sentencing to protect vulnerable animals in Carrickfergus and beyond.