Banning order for Rotherham man who neglected dog & forced her to live in filthy conditions
A 34-year-old man has been banned from keeping dogs for the next five years, after police officers found his bull breed animal living in “appalling conditions.”
The court action, which also included a fine, has been brought against the dog’s owner Damien Williams, aged 34, of Wesley Avenue, Aston, Rotherham.
Speaking today (Monday, November 24, 2025), a South Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “On 17 October 2024, a dog legislation officer was supporting colleagues with other enquiries when he became aware of a bull breed dog called ‘Xena’ living in dreadful conditions.
“The dog had no adequate bedding or area to sleep, was not provided any enrichment and was living among faeces and urine.
“The dog was not being adequately cared for and its living conditions posed a risk of injury.
“The dog was seized and taken into our care.
“Williams pleaded guilty to failing in his duty to ensure the welfare of an animal at an earlier hearing on July 29, 2025.”
On November 18, 2025, Williams appeared before Sheffield Magistrates’ Court and was given a five-year banning order, meaning he cannot own a dog or care for a dog in the next five years.
During the same hearing, an order was also made to deprive Williams of ownership of Xena, meaning she will not be returned to his care, and he will also have to pay £463 in fees.
The force spokesperson added: “The dog remains in our police kennels and has undergone testing to be rehomed. The dog has behavioural issues and our efforts to look at options to rehabilitate it are ongoing.”
“Animal abuse and cruelty will not be tolerated across South Yorkshire. We will do all we can to protect innocent animals and ensure those responsible are held accountable for their actions.”