Man found guilty of animal cruelty after puppy abuse in Ocean Village

A man has been found guilty of animal cruelty after kicking and mistreating a puppy in Ocean Village.

Ziad Attou was convicted at the Magistrates’ Court following an incident dating back to July 2023.

Stipendiary Magistrate Charles Bonfante accepted the evidence of the Crown including that of an eyewitness.

She told the court she witnessed the incident and got out of her car to try to remove the puppy from Attou and keep him safe.

Although CCTV showed some inconsistencies in parts of her evidence, Mr Bonfante said these did not raise reasonable doubt.

He also accepted her evidence that Attou had kicked the puppy.

Attou was fined £250.

The Crown is now applying for the now 3 year old dog to be officially removed from Attou’s ownership, so he can remain with his foster family.

The matter has been adjourned to the 3rd of June, when the court will hear the application.