Tipp man jailed for obstructing ISPCA inspectors
Tipperary man sentenced to four months imprisonment for obstructing ISPCA Inspectors and Gardai
On Tuesday September 27 at Clonmel District Court, James O’Reilly admitted a charge of obstructing Authorised Officers under the Animal Health and Welfare Act (AHWA) 2013. He was sentenced to four months imprisonment.
The incident took place during a search of a property in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary conducted by Clonmel Gardaí and Detective Members from Clonmel Garda, along with ISPCA Inspectors, on Friday, October 22, 2021. At that time Mr O’Reilly was arrested by gardaí at the scene for obstructing the search.
During the operation 13 dogs, 5 pups, and 3 cats were removed and taken into ISPCA care. The dogs were of various breeds including Lurchers, Jack Russell’s, Cavachon’s, Pugs and Shih tzus. One of the Jack Russell’s was positively identified as a missing dog, Dolly, who had been stolen from her Westmeath home 10 months before. Dolly was reunited with her grateful owners.
The ISPCA would like to thank the Garda members from Clonmel Garda Station who participated in the original operation and prosecuted the case.
The ISPCA encourages members of the public to continue to report any animal welfare concerns to the National Animal Cruelty Helpline in confidence on 0818 515 515, email helpline@ispca.ie