Big Brother's Farmer Dave cleared of animal cruelty over death of a dog
The former Australian reality TV star known as 'Farmer Dave' has been found not guilty of six animal cruelty charges after the death of a dog in his care.
Dave Graham, who shot to fame as a contestant on Big Brother, was clearly emotional as he departed Parramatta court on Monday, saying there were no winners after the death of Wags in June 2015.
"It's the worst thing that's ever happened," Mr Graham said, fighting back tears outside court.
Mr Graham was acquitted of failing to protect three dogs at his Box Hill boarding kennel.
Wags' owner Cheryl Moscato, who was in court for the decision, said she was disappointed with the court's outcome.
"All I know is I'm holding my dog's collar," she said.
"He was quite healthy when I dropped him off and I haven't got him today."
Ms Moscato told the court Mr Graham said Wags died peacefully and he buried him at the property.
But when Wags was exhumed, he was found to have a snapped spine and all his ribs were broken, indicating he was mauled by at least one other dog.
Speaking through her tribute page Wags Voice, Ms Moscato said she "can't explain or understand" the judge's decision.
Earlier this month Mr Graham, who rose to prominence as the first openly gay contestant on Australian reality TV in 2006, told his Facebook fans his current Box Hill facility would be forced to close due to surrounding developments.
"We've only really got a few months left," he said in the shared video.
"At some point in 2017, we will no longer be doing lodging here and soon after that, no longer doing day care.
"But the journey doesn't end with the housing coming to Box Hill.
"It ain't over yet ... there's a lot more to be done, without this exact facility."
