TOMMY JAMIESON FROM WALLS IN SHETLAND FACES CRUELTY CHARGES OVER PONIES

A case involving allegations of animal cruelty has been brought before a Shetland court, where Tommy Jamieson, a 43-year-old crofter from Walls, has had his sentencing deferred after admitting to three charges related to the mistreatment of Shetland ponies.

In February, authorities from the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA), in collaboration with local police, conducted an inspection of a field owned by Jamieson following reports of a deceased pony found on the premises, as well as concerns about the welfare of seven other ponies that appeared to be severely malnourished.

During the visit, officials made it clear to Jamieson that he needed to improve the care and feeding of the ponies immediately, warning that failure to do so could result in their deaths. Despite these warnings, subsequent investigations revealed ongoing neglect.

Just a few weeks later, the SSPCA was called again after a pony was rescued from Jamieson’s property. The mare, named Judith, was found to be emaciated, suffering from a lice infestation, and unable to stand. The condition of Judith was so dire that she was taken into care and placed on permanent loan, receiving specialized veterinary treatment and nursing care to aid her recovery.

During the court proceedings, Tommy Allen, representing Jamieson, stated that his client’s family had a long-standing tradition of caring for Shetland ponies, spanning three generations. Allen pleaded with the court to allow Jamieson to retain custody of the remaining five ponies, emphasizing the familial ties and history of animal husbandry.

He also highlighted the personal toll the case had taken on Jamieson, noting that the crofter had lost his employment as a result of the legal proceedings. The court has scheduled the sentencing for Wednesday, 7 November, when Sheriff Graeme Napier will determine the final outcome of the case.