In a ruling on 25 October 2024, Kyle van Niekerk, chairperson of the Mitchells Plain Community Policing Forum (CPF), was convicted on two counts of animal cruelty under the Animals Protection Act of 1962, Cape {town} Etc reports.
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Wearing his CPF jacket, van Niekerk faced justice in a courtroom where he was sentenced to either pay a fine of R6 000 or serve 12 months in prison.
According to the SPCA, van Niekerk’s conviction stems from multiple instances of neglect and mistreatment of his pet dog.
Despite warnings from SPCA Inspector Jeffrey Mfini, van Niekerk kept his dog chained amid rubble without water and in severe malnutrition, as confirmed by a veterinary report.
The SPCA received a complaint about a neglected and underweight dog at van Niekerk’s property on 22 July 2023.
Despite multiple warnings, conditions did not improve, prompting legal action and the eventual rescue of the dog.
The German Shepherd was found in critical condition, lacking food, water, and basic care, and was immediately taken to The Animal Hospital for urgent treatment.
During sentencing, the magistrate highlighted the disturbing nature of van Niekerk’s neglect and expressed dismay over his disregard for prior warnings and opportunities to surrender the dog to the SPCA.
The magistrate noted that, given his community position, van Niekerk should have set a better example.
The court decided on a fine of R6 000 or 12 months of imprisonment, with R4000 of the fine (or 8 months of the sentence) suspended for five years on the condition of lawful behaviour.
Furthermore, van Niekerk has been declared unfit to own any animals for two years.
Cape of Good Hope SPCA prosecuting officer Mr Shiven Bodasing emphasised the importance of legal measures in protecting vulnerable animals, noting that van Niekerk was aware of available alternatives for his pet’s care but chose to ignore them.
This case underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding animal welfare standards.
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Picture: SPCA
