Robert King was found guilty on three counts at Lanark Sheriff Court today. Two counts under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 and one of causing an animal fight to take place, under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.

Officers from Police Scotland were called to a badger sett near Carluke Park and Ride in South Lanarkshire and King’s two Jack Russell terriers were found to be underground in the tunnels of the badger sett. Spades and other specialist badger baiting equipment was found at the scene. There had been a significant amount of digging on the sett. Scottish SPCA special investigations unit inspectors, who are experts in animal fighting, were asked to assist the police. Subsequently King’s terriers emerged from underground with severe injuries. They were both wearing tracking collars and one had a metal chin guard. to protect its lower jaw. A common injury of badger baiting is to a dog’s lower jaw.

The skin of one of the terriers’ jaws was significantly detached from its face and the photographs of its injuries are too distressing to show here. Scottish SPCA inspectors immediately took the dogs for emergency veterinary treatment. Sadly, the vet made the decision to euthanise one animal to ease its suffering. The other dog was taken to a Scottish SPCA animal rescue and re-homing centre for rehabilitation. Police found a black lurcher type dog in King’s car which was also taken into care by the Scottish SPCA. There were scars around its muzzle consistent with animal fighting injuries.

A Scottish SPCA SIU undercover inspector said: “This case further highlights the significance of utilising our expertise to work in collaboration with Police Scotland to bring an organised animal fighters to justice. We are pleased that awareness of badger baiting and animal fighting among members of the public is increasing. These are abhorrent crimes and we are pleased King has been found guilty.”

The Scottish SPCA special investigations unit is dedicated to combating animal fighting. If anyone has any information pertaining to individuals who are involved in this activity, they are urged to contact the confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.