A Leyland man has been ordered to pay compensation after pleading guilty to an animal cruelty offence that left a pet cat with serious injuries.
On 9th January 2026, the cat became caught in a trap and, despite managing to make its way home, had suffered such severe injuries to its leg that it had to be amputated.
Following an investigation by officers from the South Rural Task Force, Mark Hewitson was charged with causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.
Hewitson, 58, of Bannister Drive, Leyland, appeared before Preston Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 9th June 2026, where he pleaded guilty to the offence.
He was ordered to pay £750 in compensation, fined £112, and must forfeit two spring‑loaded traps.
PC Sam Davey from the South Rural Task Force said: “This was a distressing incident which caused significant and avoidable suffering to a much‑loved pet.
“Traps must only ever be used in a lawful and responsible manner, and in this case they were clearly not.
“We take reports of animal cruelty extremely seriously, and this outcome reflects that. I hope it also serves as a reminder that misuse of traps can have devastating consequences, and those responsible will be held accountable.”
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