Head of Parque Animal shelter in Torremolinos Convicted for Cruelty
The New year started with the conviction of Carmen Marin Aguilar and Felipe Barco Gamez from the animal shelter in Torremolinos for cruelty to animals in their care. The pair were accused of killing more than 2000 healthy cats and dogs between January 2009 and October 2010 in a way that provoked prolonged pain and agony for the animals.
They were jailed for 3 years and nine months and one year respectively and also fined 19800 euros and 3600 euros.
It was a landmark sentence in a country where legal rights for animals are rarely enforced.
“ This was a very sad case that took a long time to reach court. We were glad to see the conviction and hope this will send a strong message to people who abuse animals,” Head of Animal Welfare at My Lawyer in Spain, Patricia Ruiz commented. “The law is there to be used and if you are found to abuse animals, you will go to prison. Anybody suspected of abusing animals, should be reported to the police”.
