Date: 10 February 2026
Location: Devonport Magistrates Court
A Northern Tasmanian man has been convicted after breaching a court-imposed animal disqualification order.
David Maloney appeared before the Devonport Magistrates Court on Tuesday 10 February 2026 in relation to a complaint made to RSPCA Tasmania in 2025.
RSPCA Inspectors attended Mr Maloney’s property following the complaint and located several animals in his custody, in breach of a court order that disqualified him from owning or having custody of any animal until 2030.
All animals were seized at the time of inspection. Mr Maloney was subsequently charged with two counts of breaching an order made pursuant to section 43 of the Animal Welfare Act 1993.
Mr Maloney was convicted of the charges and fined $1,500. The existing disqualification order remains in place, and all animals have been forfeited to the Crown.
RSPCA Tasmania Chief Inspector Jayden Stirrup said court-imposed disqualification orders are enforceable legal measures designed to safeguard animal welfare and prevent further harm.
“I would like to take this opportunity to remind anyone subject to a disqualification order that these orders are serious and remain in force for the full period determined by the Court,” Chief Inspector Stirrup said.
“They are put in place to protect animals and to uphold community expectations around responsible animal care. Any breach of such an order will be thoroughly investigated, and where sufficient evidence exists, appropriate enforcement action will be taken.”
“Our Inspectors will continue to monitor compliance and will not hesitate to bring matters back before the Court to ensure animals are protected.”
