Justice for slaughtered Wellsford dogs?

Russell Douglas Mendoza and Tony Allen Campbell were sentenced today in the Auckland District Court for the 2010 killings of 10 adult dogs and 22 puppies in Port Albert, Auckland.

Mendoza and Campbell were each sentenced to six months home detention and 300 hours community service at their nearest SPCA branch. The men will also be required to pay half of the reparations sought.

SPCA Auckland says the sentencing brings to a close to an appalling event that must never be allowed to happen again, according to Executive Director Bob Kerridge.

“This is a case involving the brutal and bloodthirsty massacre of innocent animals for which there can be no absolution,” says Mr Kerridge.

“The public were horrified at the cruelty of these killings and demanded that those involved should be charged for their callous actions, and indeed the SPCA did not hesitate in laying the appropriate charges.

“I have never before witnessed the level of trauma experienced by our SPCA inspectors in having to deal with a situation of this magnitude. I am proud of them.

Mr Kerridge regrets that an increase in the maximum term of imprisonment for wilful ill treatment of an animal was introduced to the Animal Welfare too late to apply to the Wellsford pair.

“The only questions now are: ‘Has justice been served?’ ‘Is the sentence stiff enough to deter other would-be offenders?’

“It’s unfortunate that the offence took place before increased penalties were introduced into the Animal Welfare Act. This fact may have played into the Judge’s decision to impose lighter sentences than the law now permits.

“It is fair to say that the SPCA is disappointed with these sentences as we believe the severity of the offences undoubtedly warranted a prison term.

“In her summing up the Judge indicated that sentencing in such matters should act as a deterrent to those who are cruel to animals but in our opinion these sentences do not send that message. However, SPCA Auckland remains pleased that these serious offenders have been brought to court and made answerable for their actions.”

SPCA Auckland appeals to everyone who seeks justice for all animals to contribute to supporting our inspectors in the field by donating to our Justice Fund at spca.org.nz/justice.
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