Court bans pensioner from owning animals
Jack, a black crossbreed who had known nothing but suffering. He had lived his life on a chain, tethered to misery at a Grassy Park Home. Since his rescue, he was renamed Frankie.
Image: Good Hope SPCA
A MAN who subjected his dog to prolonged cruelty has been banned for life from owning an animal in an outcome that animal welfare organisations believe will echo far beyond the courtroom walls.
Richard Edward Leo, a 76-year-old pensioner had pleaded guilty to all charges against him under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 in April.
In delivering its sentence, the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court handed him a lifetime ban on owning animals, an R8 000 fine or 8 months in prison (partially suspended), and a R5,000 reimbursement to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA for the dog’s care.
The court also ordered the immediate forfeiture of any other animals in his care.
Jack, a black crossbreed who had known nothing but suffering, had lived his life on a chain, tethered to misery at a Grassy Park Home, said the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.
“On 16 September 2024, inspectors from the Cape of Good Hope SPCA intervened rescuing Jack who was underweight, had anemia, infested with parasites, secured by a chain that was so tight, it created a septic and festering wound that encircled his neck,” according to the organisation.
After his rescue and months of care at the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, Jack was adopted and renamed Frankie - a new start with a new name that the SPCA said suited him perfectly.
Despite the landmark court outcome, Frankie still needs a home that understands that healing doesn’t happen overnight.
Image: Cape of Good Hope SPCA
“Sadly, despite his adopter’s best intentions, the placement didn’t work out. The trauma of years spent on a chain left its mark, and Frankie struggled to adapt to life with other dogs in the home. To make the transition back into care as easy as possible, Frankie was taken to the George SPCA, which is closer to his adopter’s residence and part of our national SPCA network. He remains safe, well cared for, and hopeful.”
Reacting to the court outcome, the SAPC said: "It’s a strong legal outcome and it matters, because Jack matters. The Court made that clear.
“But while the gavel fell and the sentence was passed, the story of Jack—the dog at the centre of this landmark case—is far from over. Frankie needs a third chance. He needs a home that understands that healing doesn’t happen overnight. He’ll do best as the only dog in a calm, loving environment, with someone who sees beyond his past and believes in his future.”
Anyone wishing to give Jack another chance can email: branchg@grspca.co.za or call 044 878 1990