Man, 18, sentenced after attacking cat in Basingstoke

A man has been given a suspended sentence and banned from owning animals for five years after he attacked a cat in Basingstoke.

Henry Newey, 18, of Branton Close, Basingstoke, put a grey cord around the neck of the domestic cat, called Marshall, on Thursday 17 July.

He then swung the cat in the air and into a wall of a property on Chivers Close.

Marshall was injured and received treatment at a local veterinary surgery and was later returned home to his owners.

Officers launched an investigation and arrested Newey the next day, and he claimed that the cat had bitten him first.

Newey was charged with causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal and later pleaded guilty to the offence.

He appeared at Basingstoke Magistrates Court today (24 September) and was sentenced to 18 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for 12 months.

Newey was also ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work within the community and must attend rehabilitation sessions. He also received a five-year ban in relation to owning or looking after an animal.

He must also pay £658 in compensation, a £154 surcharge and £85 in prosecution costs.

Basingstoke Inspector Tracey Purcell said: “I am fully aware of the impact that this shocking incident had on the local community. 

“It was an incredibly disturbing incident, one which left many in our community feeling sickened and saddened.

“Our thoughts remain with Marshall’s owners as no family should have to witness their beloved pet be treated in this way.

“Newey’s cowardly actions that day were despicable. No animal should be treated like this, and I’m pleased that our officers made an arrest the next day.

“I hope this sends a message that we take all reports of this nature extremely seriously and we will do all we can to ensure that offenders are put before the courts.”