Man Avoids Prison for Throwing Kittens

Andrew Shephard, 58, has received a suspended jail sentence after admitting to throwing his daughter's pet kittens into the River Thames from Twickenham Bridge in November 2025. He was sentenced to 17 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, at Wimbledon Magistrates' Court in December 2025.

Shephard, who stated he was drunk at the time, was heard saying, "let them die, I want them to die." Fortunately, a member of the public rescued one kitten before it hit the water. The two kittens that entered the river were found in severe shock and critical condition, with temperatures below 33C.

All three kittens survived the ordeal and have since been rehomed. Shephard must also complete 30 rehabilitation activity requirement days and pay a surcharge and costs. He described his actions as "horrible" and not intentional killing, but stated his daughter could no longer care for the animals.

Animal welfare organizations, including Animal Aid, Cats Protection, and PETA, have called for more robust sentencing for animal cruelty. They argue that current penalties, which include a maximum of five years imprisonment or an unlimited fine, are rarely applied and do not effectively deter future abuse.

In England and Wales, animal cruelty offenses are primarily covered by the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Since June 2021, serious offenses can result in up to five years imprisonment or an unlimited fine, an increase from the previous six-month maximum. Courts can also impose community orders, rehabilitation requirements, or lifetime bans on owning animals.