RONNIE WHEELER OF KNOTTY ASH SENTENCED FOR HORSE CRUELTY IN LIVERPOOL

Ronnie Wheeler, a donkey ride operator from Knotty Ash, Liverpool, was found guilty of severe animal neglect after a tragic incident involving his horse, Oscar. The case drew significant attention due to the cruelty involved and the failure to heed warnings from local authorities.

Wheeler, born on October 6, 1976, and previously residing on Haydn Road, Liverpool L14, was responsible for the well-being of Oscar, who was left to graze in a field located in Fazakerley. Despite explicit warnings from Liverpool City Council to remove a dangerous weed called ragwort—known to be highly toxic to horses—Wheeler neglected to do so. This negligence ultimately led to the horse's suffering and death.

The incident came to light on August 6, 2018, when the RSPCA received distress calls from concerned members of the public. Inspector Joanne MacDonald, accompanied by a veterinary surgeon, responded promptly to the scene. Upon arrival, they observed Oscar in a dire state: the horse was staggering, collapsing, and showing signs of blindness. It was evident that Oscar was struggling to stand and was unable to swallow, indicating a severe health crisis.

Further examination revealed that Oscar had been exposed to ragwort over an extended period—possibly weeks or even months. The toxic plant had caused irreversible damage, including blindness and a low body condition score. The veterinarian confirmed that Oscar needed to be euthanized to end his suffering. A post-mortem examination verified that ragwort poisoning was the cause of death, with the horse also found to have a significant worm burden, further compromising his health.

It was revealed during court proceedings that Wheeler had been warned twice before the incident. On June 15, 2018, the Liverpool City Council had sent a letter urging him to remove the ragwort, which had grown up to three feet tall in some areas of the field. Despite these warnings, Wheeler failed to take action, demonstrating a blatant disregard for animal welfare.

Wheeler’s father, Eric Wheeler of Thomas Lane, Liverpool L14, also faced charges related to horse cruelty, though the outcome of his case remains unknown. The court heard that Wheeler’s operations extended beyond this incident, as he and his family run a business called Waterfront Carriages and Donkey Hire, which offers donkey rides to the public.

In sentencing, Ronnie Wheeler received a jail term of 12 weeks. He was also ordered to pay costs amounting to £786 and a victim surcharge of £115. Additionally, he was banned from keeping any equines for a period of ten years, a restriction that will remain in effect until August 2029. The case highlights the importance of responsible animal ownership and the devastating consequences of neglecting animal welfare laws.