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Breaking News: “CHAIRPERSON” OF MITCHELLS PLAIN CPF FOUND GUILTY OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS

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In a significant court ruling on 25 October 2024, Alan Thorne, who claimed to be the Chairperson of Mitchell’s Plain Community Policing Forum (CPF), was found guilty of two counts of animal cruelty under the Animals Protection Act, 1962. Wearing a CPF jacket, Thorne faced justice in a courtroom where he was sentenced to either pay a fine of R6,000 or serve 12 months in prison.

Details of the Cruelty Case:

The conviction of Mr. Thorne follows numerous instances of neglect and mistreatment towards his pet dog. Despite several warnings from the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s Inspector Jeffrey Mfini, Thorne continued to keep his dog in dire conditions: chained amid rubble without water, and severely malnourished as confirmed by a veterinary report.

The SPCA initially received a complaint about a neglected and underweight dog at Thornes’s property on 22 July 2023. Despite multiple visits and warnings to the owner, the situation remained unchanged, leading to further legal action and eventually the rescue of the dog. The dog, a German Shepherd, was found in a perilous state, lacking food, water, and basic care, and was immediately taken to The Animal Hospital for urgent medical treatment.

Judicial Sentencing and Statements:

During the sentencing, the Magistrate emphasized the disturbing nature of Thorne’s neglect, expressing dismay over his disregard for prior warnings and opportunities to surrender the animal to the SPCA. Reflecting the gravity of his alleged position within the community, the Magistrate remarked that Thorne should have set a better example to the community. 

Ultimately, the Court decided on a fine of R6,000 or 12 months of imprisonment, with R4,000 of the fine (or 8 months of the sentence) suspended for five years on the condition of lawful behaviour. Furthermore, Thorne has been declared unfit to own any animals for two years.

The prosecuting officer for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, Mr Shiven Bodasing, stressed the critical role of legal measures in protecting vulnerable animals and highlighted that Thorne was well aware of the alternatives available for his pet’s care but chose to ignore them. The case underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding animal welfare standards.

This case serves as a firm reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership and the legal obligations to provide adequate care. 

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA thanks the state prosecutors and all involved in advocating for the welfare of animals. 

This verdict not only highlights the seriousness with which animal cruelty is treated but also reaffirms the role of animal protection organizations in safeguarding the rights and well-being of animals across the community.

This ruling is a victory for animal welfare and sends a clear message that animal cruelty will not be tolerated, ensuring that those in positions of authority are also held to account.

*This article has been corrected giving the correct name of the individual found guilty. It would also appear as though he masqueraded as a member of the Mitchells Plain CPF and this has been taken up with the Public Prosecutor.  

Read the Statement from the Mitchells Plain Sub District Community Police Board here 

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