Animal abuser banned from owning pets for LIFE

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In Courtroom 3 at the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court, justice finally caught up with a man who subjected a dog to prolonged cruelty.�

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.

Jack, a black crossbreed who had know nothing but suffering, had lived his life on a chain, tethered to misery at a Grassy Park Home.

On 16 September 2024, inspectors from the Cape of Good Hope SPCA intervened rescuing Jack who was underweight, anaemic, infested with parasites, secured by a chain that was so tight, it created a septic and festering wound that encircled his neck.

In late April 2025, his abuser, Richard Edward Leo, a 76-year-old pensioner, stood before the court and pleaded guilty to all charges laid against him under Sections 2(1)(b), (c), and (e) of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.

A sentence that sends a message

Not only was the crime acknowledged, but so too was its cost.

In a judgement that will echo far beyond the courtroom walls, the sentence included:

A lifetime ban on owning animals
A fine of R8 000 or 8 months in prison (partially suspended)
A R5 000 reimbursement to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA for Jack’s care
And the immediate forfeiture of any other animals in his custody

It was a strong legal outcome and it matters, because Jack matters. The court made that clear.�

Now known as Frankie, he’s safe – but still waiting

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 suits him perfectly.

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.

But what he needs now can’t be found in a kennel.�

Frankie, as he is now known, is still looking for his ‘forever home’. Image: SPCA website