Puppy killer Nathan Thompson was handed a lifetime ban on animal ownership on Thursday.
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He appeared in Newcastle Local Court.
There was heavy security and the case was closed to the public.
The prosecutor said the case had been moved from East Maitland to Cessnock because of security concerns, a sentiment already voiced by animal rights activist Callie Redman.
Thompson's court appearance was quick and his sentencing date was adjourned to May 9 at Newcastle Local Court.
Animal right activist Samantha Maslen from Raymond Terrace was one of many people to turn up and wait outside the courthouse.
"I think it's horrendous that something like this can happen. There is so much opportunity to humanely get rid of puppies. The lifetime sentence is a step up but it's not enough"