Monday July 2, 2007, 6:18 pm
A convicted animal abuser believed to be behind a major dog-fighting ring smashed in Co Down last month could face jail.

For cocky Errol Rowan, who went to ground after animal welfare officers raided an address at which he was believed to be living, was already BANNED from keeping animals.

And he has TWO suspended jail sentences hanging over his head from a previous animal cruelty case.

Rowan (23) is believed to have fled before police, council officers and animal welfare officers from the USPCA swooped on the farm premises at Katesbridge, Co Down.

Nine illegal and battle-scarred fighting dogs were recovered during the raid, along with specialised treadmill training equipment and steroids on the farm.

A specially-made dog-fighting ring was also recovered at the Circular Road premises.

Rowan is currently subject to two suspended jail sentences which are not due to expire until September next year, following a court case at Banbridge Magistrates Court in March.

He was sentenced to two months in jail, suspended for 18 months on a charge of keeping dangerous dogs and also given two months suspended on a charge of animal cruelty. He was also ordered to pay costs of almost £475.

Rowan could be ordered to serve his sentence if he is convicted of further offences.

The area surrounding the farm at the centre of the raid has been described as a hub for Ulster's cruel dog-fighting industry.

Animal welfare workers have been involved in no fewer than SIX separate raids on premises in the area in the past 18 months, with illegal dogs being seized on FOUR occasions.

They have included the raid in January last year on the illegal puppy farm occupied by Graham Beck - just yards from the property where Rowan was believed to be living.

Even hardened welfare workers who have witnessed years of animal abuse were horrified at the conditions animals were being kept in by Beck.

He was jailed for two months last April - along with his father Robert. Both men initially appealed their sentences, but later withdrew the appeals.

Monday July 16, 2007, 5:55 pm
THERE HAS TO BE BRUTAL LAW'S FOR BRUTAL PEOPLE! IT'S ALL THEY KNOW!