ROBERT PORTER'S HORRIFIC CRUELTY IN NORTH BELFAST: PET HUSKY STARVED TO DEATH FOR FOUR MONTHS

In a deeply disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Robert Porter, born on 26 May 1985 and residing at 13 Tyndale Grove, Belfast BT14 8HP, was found guilty of neglecting and causing the death of his pet husky, Prince. The tragic events unfolded after an animal welfare officer visited Porter’s previous residence in King William III Crescent, Maghera, on May 20, 2014, prompted by a complaint about the condition of the property.

Upon entering the premises, the officer was immediately struck by a foul, overpowering smell emanating from the kitchen area. The source of the stench was soon identified as the decomposing body of Prince, the husky, which was discovered in a state of extreme emaciation. The dog’s body was left in the kitchen for an estimated four months, revealing a heartbreaking level of neglect. The remains showed that Prince was severely underweight, with a body weight of only 11 kilograms, indicating prolonged starvation.

Further inspection of the house uncovered a disturbing scene filled with rubbish, including empty tins of dog food, suggesting that the dog had been left without proper care for an extended period. The post-mortem examination confirmed the worst fears: Prince had died from starvation and dehydration. The veterinarian noted that the dog’s skin was dry and peeling, with thick mould inside his mouth, and there was no food present in his stomach. Importantly, the post-mortem revealed that Prince was not suffering from any disease, and his death was solely attributable to neglect.

During police interviews, Porter admitted to owning Prince and acknowledged that the dog had been dead for approximately four months by the time he was discovered. He also confessed that he had not fed the animal for several weeks prior to its death, highlighting a blatant disregard for the pet’s welfare.

District Judge Alan White described the case as a “shocking” example of animal cruelty, emphasizing the severity of the neglect involved. He remarked that he had seen photographs of the deceased dog, which he described as “disgusting,” and expressed his dismay at the cruelty inflicted upon Prince.

In sentencing, Porter was ordered to complete 80 hours of community service and placed on a 12-month probation period. He was also required to pay costs amounting to £266. Additionally, he was disqualified from owning any animals for five years, a ban that had expired in March 2021. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglecting those who cannot speak for themselves.