A Tasmanian man has been convicted and sentenced after being found guilty of 11 animal cruelty offences relating to the drowning of cats at a property in the state’s north.
In July 2024, RSPCA Tasmania Inspectors responded to an animal cruelty report and located 11 deceased cats in bags and a cat trap at the property. The cats and trap were subsequently seized and referred for veterinary pathology examination.
Phillip Bradley, was interviewed as part of the investigation and admitted to trapping and drowning the cats over a period of time. Mr Bradley also admitted he intended to bury the drowned cats but was unable to do so before inspectors attended the property and discovered the deceased animals.
Mr Bradley was charged with 11 counts of cruelty to animals under the Animal Welfare Act 1993.
Despite making admissions during the investigation, Mr Bradley pleaded not guilty and disputed the level of pain and suffering caused to the animals as a result of his actions.
Following a defended hearing, Mr Bradley was found guilty of all 11 charges.
On 3 August 2026, in the Burnie Magistrates Court, Mr Bradley was convicted and sentenced to 3 months imprisonment, wholly suspended for 12 months. He was disqualified from having custody of cats for a period of 3 years.
RSPCA Tasmania Chief Inspector Jayden Stirrup said the outcome reinforced that those who deliberately cause harm to animals will be held accountable.
“No matter the circumstances, drowning an animal is completely unacceptable and causes immense suffering,” Chief Inspector Stirrup said.
“If you are unable to care for an animal or require assistance managing animal welfare issues, support is available. Deliberately causing an animal pain and suffering is never an acceptable alternative and may constitute an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 1993.”
“We recognise that managing stray or roaming cats can be frustrating for property owners, particularly when local cat management facilities are experiencing high demand,” Chief Inspector Stirrup said.
“Under the Cat Management Act 2009, people may trap stray cats provided they comply with the requirements of the legislation. Rather than causing harm to an animal, trapped cats should be taken to, or arrangements made with, a cat management facility in accordance with the Act.”
“We appreciate that cat management facilities can at times be operating at capacity or managing waiting lists, but we encourage anyone experiencing cat management issues to contact their local cat management facility as early as possible to discuss the options available. While these situations can be frustrating, drowning or otherwise deliberately causing an animal pain and suffering is never an acceptable solution.”
Chief Inspector Stirrup also acknowledged the work of RSPCA Tasmania inspectors who respond to challenging animal welfare matters and thanked the community for its ongoing support in protecting animals.
“Our inspectors are often called upon to attend confronting and distressing situations, and they approach each case with professionalism, compassion and a commitment to improving animal welfare outcomes,” Chief Inspector Stirrup said.
“Animal welfare is a shared responsibility, and we thank members of the community who speak up, report concerns and support the work being done to protect animals across Tasmania.”
RSPCA Tasmania reminds the community that people who are experiencing difficulties caring for animals should seek assistance as early as possible. Owners and carers have a responsibility to ensure the welfare of animals in their care.
Anyone who is concerned about animal cruelty or neglect is encouraged to report it by calling 1300 139 947 or by visiting rspcatas.org.au.
