Woman who kicked puppy pleads guilty to charge of cruelty

A WOMAN caught on camera kicking a puppy has admitted a charge of animal cruelty.

Mary Haughian (34) of Hill Street, Lurgan, was captured on CCTV dragging the Staffordshire bull terrier by its lead and then aiming several kicks at it.

She was charged with causing unnecessary suffering to the animal on October 10 at Union Street in the town.

Standing in the dock of Craigavon Magistrates Court, Haughian spoke only to confirm she understood the charge.

District Judge Bernie Kelly said: “So is it a guilty plea?” A defence solicitor confirmed this and asked for an adjournment before sentencing. It is understood the PSNI is seeking an order to have the dog rehomed. CCTV of the incident, and (right) the puppy after it was rescued

The images of Haughian, which were posted on the PSNI Craigavon Facebook site, provoked an angry backlash.

She was arrested and charged shortly afterwards. Police later issued a post and a picture of the puppy: “You may recog- nise this little guy from a video that’s done the rounds on social media this evening. Thanks to those who reported it, here he is pictured in the safe arms of ‘A’, who I’m told he’s taken a bit of a shine to. Little Pupper is now safe with a recognised breeder.

“An investigation is now under way and his owner will be answering some questions about animal cruelty offences.”

The police revealed their horror at seeing the footage.

“As animal lovers, we all had the same response to that video. The air turned blue in our office when we watched it, and significant levels of anger have been voiced,” the message added.

Haughian was freed on bail and will be sentenced tomorrow.