SINGAPORE: A domestic helper was charged with four counts of animal abuse today, following videos that emerged earlier this year, which allegedly show her hitting a poodle and leaving it tied to a balcony railing.
Junny Lal Awn Pui, a 25-year-old Myanmar national, faces four counts of cruelty under the Animals and Birds Act. The charges stem from incidents at a Fernvale flat on the morning of Jan 22, where the poodle, named "Boyboy," reportedly died the same day.
The court, CNA reported, said that she severely abused the male brown poodle, including hitting its head multiple times with her hand and a makeshift stick made from rolled papers. She is also accused of causing unnecessary pain while attempting to bandage the dog and of hanging it by its harness on a balcony railing to "sun" it.
Appearing via video link, Junny Lal Awn Pui said that she would plead guilty to three of the charges but contest the one related to hanging the dog, claiming her employer instructed her to do so. She is representing herself in court.
The National Parks Board prosecutor said that three charges will be pursued, with one being taken into consideration, and sentencing details are yet to be determined.
Junny Lal Awn Pui's next court appearance is scheduled for Sept 5.
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) was alerted to the case through social media, and CCTV footage shared by Derrick Tan, president of the charity group Voice for Animals, highlighted the abuse. The poodle's owner had installed cameras to monitor the dog, which had been with his family for nine years.
As a first-time offender, Junny could face up to 18 months in jail, a fine of up to S$15,000 (US$11,500), or both if convicted.