SHANNON BENNETT FROM NEWTOWNHAMILTON CONVICTED OVER CRUELTY TO PUPPIES AT LARNE PORT

Shannon Bennett, a woman born in August 1996 and formerly residing in Meadowvale, Newtownhamilton, Newry BT35 0HW, has been found guilty of multiple charges related to animal cruelty. The conviction stems from a disturbing incident involving the mistreatment and neglect of puppies, which drew the attention of local authorities and animal welfare organizations.

According to court records, Bennett was convicted on several counts, including causing unnecessary suffering to two German shepherds and two Shih Tzus. She was also found guilty of failing to meet the basic needs of these dogs, as well as six Labradors, with a total of three counts related to neglect. Additionally, she was charged with permitting the Labradors to suffer unnecessarily, highlighting a pattern of neglect and cruelty.

The case was prosecuted by the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council following a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the puppies' welfare. The investigation was initiated after animal welfare officers responded to concerns raised at Larne port in April 2023. Officers discovered a number of puppies inside a crate within a van, which was deemed grossly inadequate for their size and needs.

The van used for transporting the puppies was found to be severely lacking in basic provisions. It contained no food and had only limited water available for the animals during what was likely a long journey. An independent veterinarian examined the puppies and reported that two of them were suffering from hemorrhagic diarrhea, a serious and potentially fatal condition.

All the puppies were found to be underweight, indicating neglect and poor care. As a result, the puppies were seized by authorities to prevent further suffering. Tragically, shortly after their removal, five of the puppies contracted parvovirus, a highly contagious and deadly disease, which led to their deaths. The remaining five puppies, however, managed to recover fully and were successfully rehomed to caring families.

During police questioning, Bennett provided inconsistent and contradictory accounts regarding the origins of the puppies and the duration they had been left in her care or in the van. Her explanations failed to clarify the circumstances, further implicating her in the neglect.

In sentencing, the court ordered Bennett to complete 200 hours of community service and pay costs amounting to £160. Additionally, she received a 10-year ban on owning or transporting animals, a disqualification that will remain in effect until July 2034. This case underscores the importance of animal welfare laws and the ongoing efforts of local authorities to combat cruelty and neglect in the region.