Following consultation with Greater Manchester Police and the RSPCA, the Crown Prosecution Service has today authorised Greater Manchester Police to charge Beverley Concannon from Atherton, Greater Manchester with three offences under the Animal Welfare Act.
This follows investigations by the police and by the RSPCA after the tragic death of Jade Anderson, who was attacked by four dogs in Beverley Concannon’s home on 24 March 2013. The CPS has concluded that there is insufficient evidence to bring any criminal charges in connection with Jade’s death.
Elizabeth Reed, Branch Crown Prosecutor, CPS North West said:
“The Crown Prosecution Service has carried out a very detailed review of all the evidence from Greater Manchester Police following investigations into Jade Anderson’s tragic death, and I have concluded that there is insufficient evidence to charge anyone in connection with her death.
“I considered whether it was possible to bring any charges under the Dangerous Dogs Act and whether there was sufficient evidence to charge Beverley Concannon, the owner of the dogs, with manslaughter by gross negligence. I have concluded that as the four dogs are not prohibited breeds under the Dangerous Dogs Act and were not out of control in a public place it is not possible to bring charges under the Dangerous Dogs legislation. I have also concluded, taking into account all the facts and circumstances of this case and the law relating to manslaughter by gross negligence, that there is insufficient evidence to bring a charge for this offence against her.
“The RSPCA also carried out investigations into the conditions and welfare of the four dogs at the address. I have considered the evidence they have provided, including an expert’s report, and following consultation with the RSPCA and police I have today authorised the police to charge Beverley Concannon with three offences under the Animal Welfare Act. The charges relate to the conditions in which she kept the four dogs at her home address and her failure to exercise reasonable care and supervision of them.
“This is a very sad case in which a young girl tragically lost her life. We have given it the meticulous attention it deserves and have considered all possible prosecution outcomes. My thoughts and sincere condolences remain with Jade’s family for their loss. They have been kept informed throughout the case and we have given them a detailed explanation of our decisions.”
Beverley Concannon has been charged with two offences contrary to Section 4 (1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and one offence contrary to Section 9 (1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and will appear at Wigan Magistrates Court on 1 October 2013.
The four dogs were humanely destroyed by police on 24 March 2013.
Note
Offences under Section 4 (1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and Section 9 (1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 are summary only offences.
