RSPCA Appeal...Do You Know This Man?
The RSPCA has launched an appeal to the public for help in tracing a suspected dog fighter who has failed to attend a number of court hearings, in a case which has connections to North Wales.
RSPCA Cymru is urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of JOHN HERBERT KNIBBS (d.o.b 04/02/64) , previously of Polyanthus Drive, in Sleaford, Lincolnshire, to contact them via the charity’s inspectorate appeal line and leave a message for inspector Kirsty Withnall.
The man is accused of six offences under the Animal Welfare Act and two offences under the Dangerous Dogs Act - but has failed to attend three hearings (in April, May and June) at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court.
The 54-year-old, who is also known as JOHN DONAGHY , is further accused of causing unnecessary suffering at Bloxholm, near Digby, to bull terriers Baddy and Panther by failing to get veterinary care for the dogs' injuries.
Knibbs is one of five people due in court in connection with an RSPCA and police investigation into dog fighting.
The animal welfare charity joined North Wales Police and Lincolnshire Police as they executed warrants at three properties in September and December (2017), in which a number of dogs were removed.
RSPCA inspector Kirsty Withnall, who is leading the investigation, said: “Mr Knibbs hasn’t been seen since December and we’ve failed to reach him so we’re asking the public to help us track him down.
“We’ve tried all the normal avenues and have reason to believe he may have fled to the Republic of Ireland. If anyone knows where he is, or can assist in our investigation, we’d urge them to contact our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018, or call the Police.”