THE National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) in Alberton investigated a case of deliberate cruelty to the tortoise inflicted on the animal by a Letiya Mercy Lebakeng.
She was sentenced to R500 or 50 days imprisonment after pleading guilty in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on November 5, 2018.
Lebakeng was accused of deliberately and forcefully throwing the tortoise against a rock as it had apparently wandered into her yard in Palm Ridge, south of Johannesburg, on February 18, 2017. She was further sentenced to 12 months imprisonment suspended for five years should she be found guilty of animal cruelty. She was further declared unfit to own or be in charge of any animal for a period of five years.
The owner of the tortoise brought the severely injured tortoise to the NSPCA to seek urgent assistance. The shell of the tortoise was seriously cracked, and it was critically injured.
“The tortoise was sent to a Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre for treatment and rehabilitation. Unfortunately, after a long time in rehabilitation, the animal did not recover the use of her hind leg, and the veterinarian decided to humanely euthanise her. “Although a sad ending, but at least justice was served for the poor animal,” said Arno De Klerk, manager of Special Projects Unit for the NSPCA.
Magistrate Martini commented on the inherent value of animals, and the way we treat them must be consistent with the values enshrined in the Constitution.
For free daily local news in the south, visit our sister newspapers Alberton Record, Comaro Chronicle, Southern Courier and Get it Joburg South Magazine.
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages. You can also email our offices on cvdwalt@caxton.co.za, juliem@caxton.co.za or luckyt@caxton.co.za
Add us on WhatsApp today! Comaro Chronicle: 079 427 8074 and Southern Courier: 079 404 5789.
Get regular news updates sent directly to your inbox: Newsletter-Signup
