THOMAS WINTERS FROM JOHNSTONE SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO HIS DOG AT MORRISON’S PETROL STATION

Thomas Stewart Winters, born on March 11, 1969, and residing at 71B High Street, Johnstone PA5 8QG, was involved in a disturbing incident that drew the attention of local authorities and animal welfare organizations. The incident occurred on July 19, 2021, at a Morrison’s petrol station in Johnstone, where Winters, under the influence of alcohol, lost control and subjected his pet dog to unnecessary suffering.

According to court reports, Winters was walking his dog when the animal exhibited aggressive behavior towards a passerby. This seemingly provoked Winters’ anger, which quickly escalated into a violent outburst. Witnesses described how Winters, in a drunken rage, pinned the dog to the ground and proceeded to kick and punch her repeatedly on the head and body. The assault was so severe that the dog was forced to flee into nearby bushes, where Winters continued his aggressive behavior by kicking and swiping at the foliage in a fit of rage.

The Paisley Sheriff Court heard that Winters’ actions were driven by a moment of panic and intoxication. The court was informed that he had been walking his dog for four years without prior incidents of harm or neglect. However, the severity of this particular event led to criminal charges being filed against him. Winters pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, specifically for pinning the dog down and repeatedly assaulting her.

During the court proceedings, defense lawyer Charlie McCusker explained that Winters, who was intoxicated at the time, had difficulty recalling the details of the incident. He emphasized that Winters had no history of animal cruelty and expressed remorse for his actions. McCusker also noted that two representatives from the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) visited Winters’ home to check on the welfare of the dog. The inspectors confirmed that Winters was allowed to keep his pet after their visit, but he was advised on proper discipline methods.

McCusker highlighted that Winters had received incorrect advice from others regarding how to discipline his dog, which contributed to the incident. He stated, “He has accepted that and he is embarrassed about what he did that day.”

Judge Lindsay Kooner deferred sentencing to allow for the preparation of background reports and to gather further information from SSPCA inspectors. She emphasized the seriousness of the offense, stating that causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, especially one’s own pet, is a grave matter. Winters was subsequently placed on an electronic monitoring tag for 108 days, which requires him to remain indoors between 8:30 pm and 7:00 am. Additionally, he was ordered to undergo mandatory supervision by the local authority for a period of six months.

Following a review of the welfare reports, the court decided that Winters could retain ownership of his dog, provided he adhered to the conditions set forth. The case underscores the importance of responsible pet ownership and the consequences of animal cruelty, regardless of intoxication or provocation.