Ex-hotel chef spared prison over cat death
AMAN who admitted bludgeoning a cat to death at a Betws-yCoed hotel has been handed a suspended prison sentence.
Dylan Marcus Edwards, 50, of Llanrwst, had previously pleaded guilty to the charge of causing a cat unnecessary suffering at Llandudno Magistrates’ Court on May 23.
Yesterday he was given an 18-week prison sentence, suspended for a twoyear period.
In addition, Edwards was disqualified from owning any animal for four years, told to do 250 hours of unpaid work, and ordered to pay £750 in costs.
The case followed the killing of a cat in the kitchen of the Royal Oak Hotel – which prompted widespread anger in the community and on social media.
The court heard that the animal was beaten to death with a piece of wood on December 2.
Following the incident a statement posted on the hotel’s Facebook page said the cat had been “humanely euthanised” to “protect the health and wellbeing of others”.
The statement said: “The Royal Oak Hotel is able to confirm that RSPCA attended its premises on Saturday, December 3, following public concerns over an alleged incident with a feral cat. The staff involved believed they had dealt with an unforeseen set of circumstances in a prompt and lawful manner in order to protect the health and wellbeing of others.
“It was with regret that the feral cat was humanely euthanised as lawfully provided for when dealing with any animal legally classified as vermin.
“Having reflected upon their actions, the staff involved understand why such an incident will upset people as the destruction of any animal is regrettable no matter what the circumstances. We have co-operated fully with the RSPCA and provided them with an open and full account of events as they transpired. They have conducted face to face interview with relevant senior management.
“To date, we have received no complaint or indication that any unlawful act took place on company premises.
“We will take swift and appropriate action should this change.”
It is understood Mr Edwards believed his actions to be legal as the cat was feral.
Speaking after the hearing, RSPCA Cymru said they undertook a detailed investigation of the incident, and described the act as a “heinous crime” which would have caused “unimaginable pain” to the cat involved.
The charity said it was unable to locate the body of the animal, which was disposed of by the man.
Edwards, who had served as a head chef and catering manager at the hotel, was dismissed by management before court proceedings.
RSPCA inspector Phil Lewis said: “To bludgeon a cat to death in this way is a heinous crime, and it is no surprise there was such widespread condemnation of this act across north Wales.
“With no body or witnesses to the incident, this was a complex investigation, but RSPCA Cymru worked hard to ensure legal ramifications were faced for this despicable action.
“Ignorance of the law is no excuse for such cruelty.”