| A Victoria-area man has been found guilty on both counts in a case of animal cruelty that resulted in Bryn, a female pit bull mix, being beaten with a baseball bat – so badly beaten, that her ability to walk was affected.
Following a BC SPCA cruelty investigation, Colwood resident Joseph White was convicted on two counts under the Criminal Code of Canada in B.C. Provincial Court in Victoria Friday: 445.1(1)(a), causing unnecessary pain/suffering to an animal, and 446(1)(b), owner failing to provide necessaries for the animal. “This is great news! The judge found there ‘was no justifiable reason’ for his actions, which were horrific, and left poor Bryn unable to walk, eat or drink after he attacked her,” says Erika Paul, BC SPCA senior animal protection and outreach officer, Vancouver Island.
White was released on bail pending his sentencing, with several conditions, including that he must not own an animal of any kind or reside anywhere animals are present. White also must not contact Sandee Johnston, the co-accused, who pled guilty to a lesser charge earlier this year. White’s next appearance is scheduled for May 28 at the Western Communities Courthouse in Victoria, to fix a date for his sentencing.
The British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a not-for-profit organization reliant on public donations. Our mission is to protect and enhance the quality of life for domestic, farm and wild animals in B.C. |
Bryn suffered from multiple injuries to her legs, torso, head and teeth but, after being surrendered to the SPCA more than 24 hours after the beating, she was treated for her injuries and – after several months of recovery and rehabilitation – she is again, able to walk. She was eventually adopted by her foster family, who fell in love with the sweet, gentle and affectionate dog.