A man from Broken Hill has been found guilty of committing an aggravated act of cruelty against a dog in his care that required necessary veterinary treatment.
Appearing at Broken Hill Local Court on 19 October 2026, the defendant was sentenced to a 10-month custodial sentence to be served as an Intensive Correction Order with 80 hours of community service. He was disqualified from owning, keeping or caring for animals for five years and ordered to pay $400.23 in animal care and professional costs.
In facts tendered, the Court heard that an RSPCA NSW Inspector attended the defendant’s property in November 2025 in response to animal welfare concerns.
In the backyard, three dogs were sighted with one Boxer known as ‘Sarge’ observed lying in a hole, appearing emaciated and lethargic. After struggling to stand, the dog eventually made its way over to the Inspector who noted the dog had a distinct smell of rotting necrotic flesh which was likely the result of an infected wound in its groin region.
In immediate need of veterinary treatment, the dog was seized and taken to the RSPCA NSW Broken Hill Veterinary Clinic where an examination found the dog was emaciated, weighing just 17.5 kilograms when an estimated ideal weight was at least 27kgs.
The dog also had maggot-infested necrotic tissue near its groin, caused by an untreated tumour.
A veterinary report concluded that:
- The dog needed veterinary treatment for a tumour for a minimum period of 1 month.
- The dog had a maggot infestation that would have occurred at a minimum in the previous 2-3 days prior to seizure.
- The dog’s poor body condition required investigative veterinary treatment for a minimum period of 1 month.
- The dog was in such a physical state that it was deemed cruel to be kept alive and required immediate euthanasia.
At the time of sentencing, the Judge noted that no other penalty than imprisonment was appropriate and that the court wished to respect the dignity of the animal involved.
An Inspector involved in the matter said: “I will never forget this abhorrent act of animal cruelty. The Judge’s sentence makes clear that such actions are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
“I believe that ‘Sarge’ the Boxer has been given some dignity with this result but could’ve been given more with earlier intervention.”
RSPCA NSW Chief Inspector Scott Meyers added: “RSPCA NSW welcomes an outcome that reflects the serious and inhumane animal cruelty committed by the defendant.
“The custodial sentence meets community expectations for animal welfare and sends a clear message that those who mistreat animals or allow them to suffer will face serious consequences.”
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If you have animal welfare concerns, please call RSPCA NSW to investigate on 1300 CRUELTY (1300 278 3589) or 9770 7555.
