Badger Baiting Fiend Jailed After Shocking Animal Cruelty Conviction
Damien Sweeney Found Guilty of Brutal Animal Abuse
Damien Sweeney from Maes Glyndwr, Treuddyn, Mold, was slammed with 12 charges after a harrowing court case. In October, he was convicted of eight counts under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and four charges under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992.
The accused subjected two dogs—a female tan lurcher and another named Reggie—to horrific suffering. Sweeney failed to protect the dogs from injuries and denied them crucial veterinary care on multiple occasions between 2017 and 2018.
Horrific Injuries from Badger Baiting Exposed
Four charges stemmed from Sweeney’s barbaric attempts to kill, injure, or capture badgers. Evidence was uncovered when North Wales Police seized a mobile phone revealing videos of a tan lurcher viciously attacking a badger, causing severe pain and distress to the wild animal.
Following a police warrant, the RSPCA found dogs with injuries consistent with badger baiting—an illegal and cruel blood sport.
Swift Justice Served: Jail and Dog Ban
On 18 November, Llandudno Magistrates’ Court handed Sweeney a 20-week jail sentence. He was also banned from keeping dogs for eight years. Two dogs were removed under a deprivation notice to protect them from further harm.
RSPCA Vows to Crack Down on Badger Baiting
“Sadly badger baiting remains a serious problem in our countryside,” said RSPCA officer Jason Bowles. “The RSPCA will not relent in bringing those involved in this cruel activity to justice. We thank North Wales Police for their continued support.”
Experts confirmed Sweeney intentionally encouraged his dogs to fight wild mammals, causing needless pain and suffering without seeking proper veterinary care.
This case shines a light on the brutal reality of badger baiting and the fight to end animal cruelty in the UK.
