CONVICTED (2020) | Kerri Leanne Ogilby, born c. 1984, most recently of Great James Street, Londonderry BT48 7DB – left a Shih-Tzu dog in an empty flat for several days without food or water
Ogilby, who has 96 previous criminal convictions including burglary, disorderly behaviour and assaulting police officers, was convicted in May 2019 in her absence of causing unnecessary suffering to the unnamed dog. As she was a ‘no-show’ for her court appearance, a warrant was issued for her arrest and she has only now been sentenced.
The court was told that a report was received on December 22, 2017 that the defendant had not been seen for several days and there was concern for a dog she kept in her basement flat.
Attempts were made to contact Ogilby but were unsuccessful.
An officer called out to the basement flat and there was no reply and tape was placed over the lock.
A dog could be heard barking on the premises. A subsequent visit revealed that the tape was intact signifying the defendant had not entered the flat.
A decision was made to force entry and the male Shih Tzu was found locked in a small bathroom.
The dog had no access to food or water. The floor of the bathroom had faeces, shredded toilet roll and empty alcohol containers.
The dog’s hip bones and ribs could be clearly felt through his thick coat.
He was seized by animal welfare officers on recommendation of the Council-instructed vet.
Upon examination, the vet confirmed that the dog was suffering due to poor body condition, dehydration and abandonment.
Following his recovery the dog was successfully rehomed.
Sentencing: six months’ imprisonment on each of the two charges; ordered to pay £700. Disqualified for life from keeping or caring for any animals in any manner.