Newquay man jailed and banned for life after pets suffered horrific abuse
Chance the dog and Casper the cat died following severe blunt force injuries
Last updated 20th Aug 2026
Jordan Wood, who is 25, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison and banned from keeping animals for life after admitting three animal welfare offences at Truro.
Wood, of Newquay, was prosecuted by the RSPCA for causing severe non-accidental injuries to two pets—a male Labrador known as Chance and a male cat named Casper—resulting in their deaths.
The RSPCA began investigating after a vet raised concerns about the nature of Chance's multiple injuries in April last year, prompting police to seize him for examination.
Chance's severe injuries included skull fractures inconsistent with Wood's claim that the dog ran into a fence, as well as signs of strangulation, compression damage from a collar, and a spinal fracture.
Sadly, complications from existing throat fractures led to Chance’s euthanasia while in RSPCA care.
Casper, presented deceased in August 2025, showed evidence of injuries from at least three timelines, including skeletal and severe head trauma, consistent with prolonged abuse.
His cause of death was attributed to extensive lung collapse and respiratory failure due to blunt force trauma.
RSPCA Inspector Jack Alderson condemned the cruelty:
“The cruelty inflicted upon innocent animals like Chance and Casper is an unforgivable betrayal of trust. Every living creature deserves a life free from suffering and filled with compassion."
In mitigation, Wood's defence cited a difficult childhood and mental health challenges.
A second individual, Ellen Gibson, is due to be sentenced next month for related offences, including allowing suffering and failing to provide veterinary care at Trekenning Tourist Park, Newquay.
The breach of Section 4 (1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which both Wood and Gibson face, involves inflicting or permitting unnecessary suffering on protected animals.
This tragic case highlights the importance of vigilance within the community and the RSPCA's commitment to pursuing justice for vulnerable animals.