Cape of Good Hope SPCA says a recent court ruling in the case of the State versus Franco Jerome Louw shines as a beacon of hope for the organisation and animal welfare advocates everywhere.
Facing charges under the Animal Protection Act (no. 71 of 1962) for the continued neglect of his dog who was left chained for prolonged time periods, Louw was handed an unsuspended fine of R2000 or a two month prison term at the Somerset West Magistrate’s Court last week.
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While a suspended sentence could lead to a delay in in punishment pending good behaviour, a non-suspended verdict calls for immediate accountability.
The SPCA said the firm and uncompromising sentence carried ‘an unambiguous message to our society – a stern stand against any form of animal cruelty’.
Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse says ‘justice has prevailed, and we are encouraged by the commitment demonstrated by the judicial system’s ruling. It is a commitment to our ongoing fight against animal cruelty.’
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In addition to being chained, unable to run freely, explore or engage with others, Louw’s dog was frequently without fresh drinking water.
Despite six visits to the owner’s property by Inspector Siviwe Noko, the owner remained resistant and uncooperative while the dog’s situation remained unchanged.
‘A court order becomes essential when all other avenues fail, and in this case, Inspector Noko had no choice but to seek one to legally intervene and rescue this dog from further suffering,’ explained the SPCA.
The court order was granted.
Inspector Noko arrived at the owner’s property accompanied by SAPS officers to execute the court order.
‘The owner threw the court order on the ground and physically prevented the seizure of the dog, obstructing an officer of the law in executing his duties,’ said the animal organisation.
With the help of additional SAPS officers and support from Law Enforcement in Strand, the dog was confiscated after a Seizure Notice was issued.
An animal cruelty case was opened and Louw pleaded guilty in court.
‘The message this ruling sends is clear: animal cruelty will not be tolerated in our society, not by those who witness it, not by those who investigate it and not by those who hear the matter in court,’ concluded the SPCA.
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Picture: Cape of Good Hope SPCA
