A shocking cat-throwing video circulating on social media has led to the arrest of an 18-year-old man in Lancashire. The footage appears to show someone throwing a black and white cat from a quarry cliff into water below in Carnforth.
The video quickly sparked widespread outrage across social platforms. Lancashire Police responded rapidly after being alerted to the disturbing content.
How Social Media Users Helped Identify Animal Cruelty
Image by pexels
Grey Tabby Cat Lying Beside Brown Wooden Door at Daytime
The power of social media proved crucial in this case. Multiple concerned users alerted Lancashire Police after spotting the disturbing footage online.
Many viewers described the video as “sick” as it clearly showed someone hurling a helpless cat from a dangerous height at a former quarry location.
Police took these reports seriously and quickly launched an investigation.
“We were made aware of the video by social media users,” confirmed a Lancashire Police spokesperson.
The public’s willingness to speak up played a vital role in bringing this incident to the attention of authorities. Without these reports, the act might have gone unnoticed by officials.
What Happens When Someone Is Arrested for Animal Cruelty
Image by pexels
Shallow Focus Photo of Orange Tabby Cat
Following their investigation, police arrested an 18-year-old Carnforth resident on suspicion of animal cruelty.
A police statement released Wednesday confirmed: “An 18-year-old man from Carnforth arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty has been released under investigation while our enquiries continue.”
This case highlights the serious approach authorities now take toward animal welfare violations. Under current UK law, animal cruelty can result in:
- Prison sentences extending to five years
- Unlimited fines in some cases
- A permanent criminal record
The teen has been released while the investigation continues. This is standard procedure as police gather all necessary evidence before determining whether formal charges will be filed.
Why Police Are Concerned About Public Reaction
Image by pexels
A Close-Up Shot of a Tabby Cat
While the outrage over the video is understandable, Lancashire Police have issued an important warning about inappropriate responses to the incident.
“We are aware some people have targeted those shown in the video and their families and subjected them to threats and anti-social behavior,” stated the police department.
They added: “We would remind people any criminal behavior will be dealt with robustly.”
This warning underscores the importance of letting justice work through proper channels. Taking matters into private hands can lead to additional problems. Those involved in harassment or threats could potentially face criminal charges themselves.
What Animal Welfare Experts Recommend
The RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) acknowledged the public’s role in bringing this case forward while also providing important guidance.
“We would like to thank everyone who reported this,” said an RSPCA spokesperson.
“Lancashire Police are dealing with this matter and we would strongly encourage people not to share this video further.”
This recommendation highlights a crucial point about animal cruelty content online. Initial reporting helps authorities take action, but continued sharing of such videos can:
- Cause unnecessary distress to viewers
- Potentially inspire copycat behavior
- Interfere with ongoing investigations
Instead of resharing disturbing content, animal welfare experts suggest reporting directly to authorities who can take appropriate action.
How You Can Help Protect Animals
This case serves as a reminder that public vigilance makes a difference in protecting vulnerable animals. If you witness or learn about possible animal cruelty:
- Document what you’ve seen safely (without putting yourself at risk)
- Report directly to local police
- Contact animal welfare organizations
- Avoid confrontations with suspected wrongdoers
- Consider providing a witness statement if requested
The investigation in Carnforth continues as authorities work to determine the appropriate course of action.
Meanwhile, the case demonstrates how community awareness and proper reporting channels work together to address animal cruelty cases.
