Sick Owner Filmed Dogs Attacking Wildlife

Ryan Cringean, 25, has pleaded guilty to multiple charges involving animal fighting and welfare offenses. He admitted to making his dogs attack and injure wild animals such as squirrels, foxes, and badgers between June 2024 and February 2025. Cringean filmed these acts, causing severe injuries to both the wild animals and his own dogs.

Scottish SPCA Special Investigations Unit officers uncovered the crimes following an anonymous tip. A search of Cringean's property led to his arrest. The court highlighted the disturbing nature of the offenses, particularly noting that a young child was present in the background during some incidents.

Cringean was remanded in custody pending sentencing in November. A Scottish SPCA inspector described the videos as evidence of deliberate and horrific cruelty, stating that the attacked animals endured a torturous death. The organization anticipates the sentencing to reflect the gravity of these crimes.

This case occurs against a backdrop of high wildlife crime levels across the UK. The latest Wildlife Crime Report by Wildlife and Countryside Link recorded 2,149 suspected wildlife crimes in 2025, with only 41 convictions. Incidents include badger-related offenses, damage to bat roosts, increased wild bird beatings, and a rise in illegal trapping.