U.S.

v Bull
G.R. No. 5270 (January 15, 1910)
FACTS:
- Many months prior to December 2, 1908 N.H. Bull was the master of a steam sailing vessel
named Standard.
- The vessel was in charge of transporting 677 cattle, carabaos, and other animals from
Ampieng Formosa to Manila.
- The noses of some carabaos were pierced with rings to be passed around and tossed
upon the decks of the said vessel. Some of the noses tore off the rings of the animals
which were also cruelly wounded, bruised, and eventually killed.
ISSUE:
- Whether the court had jurisdiction over an offense over Bull committed on board on a
foreign ship by the master?
- Whether the alleged acted knowingly or willfully against cruelty of animals?
HELD:
- YES. They were within the territorial jurisdiction of the court, and the mere fact their
disembarkation is immaterial so far as jurisdiction is concerned under the provision of Sec.
3 of Act 55, as amended by Act 275 of the Philippine Commission.
- The defendants information is insufficient because it fails to allege the defendant
knowingly and willfully failed to provide suitable means for securing the said animals while
in transit. His defense rest upon the assertion that according to his experience, the system
of carrying cattle loose upon the decks and in the mold is preferable and more secure to
the life and comfort of the animals. It was conclusively that was done knowingly and
intentionally.
RULING:
- The Court of First Instance found the defendant guilty, and sentenced to pay a fine of
Php250 with subsidiary imprisonment in case of insolvency.