ABBI MANN'S HORRIFIC CRIME IN CHESTERFIELD: PET CATS DROWNED IN INHUMANE MANNER

Abbi Mann, a single mother residing on Romford Way in Barrow Hill, Chesterfield, has been convicted of a disturbing act of animal cruelty that shocked the local community and drew the attention of animal welfare authorities. Born on January 24, 1982, Mann was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to her pet cats, specifically Max and Bob, by drowning them in a toilet in a manner deemed inhumane and cruel.

The incident took place in July 2017, and the case was brought to light after Mann’s home was visited by police officers and paramedics responding to a report of a person experiencing suicidal thoughts. During the emergency response, authorities observed that Mann appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. The situation was further complicated by her admission that she had pushed one of her cats, who was struggling to breathe, into the toilet, acknowledging that she had probably caused its death.

Mann claimed that her cats had been poisoned by neighbors who had been bullying her, a statement that was scrutinized during the investigation. A post-mortem examination on the deceased animals revealed evidence consistent with drowning, with experts concluding that Max and Bob had been forcibly restrained and submerged. One of the cats exhibited bruising around the neck, indicative of being held and pushed under water against its will.

Andy Cash, representing the RSPCA, provided testimony to the court, emphasizing the severity of the act. He stated, “This is a lady, who, for whatever reason, in moments of stress has responded entirely inappropriately and we have to be concerned for the welfare of animals in the future and that would be the overriding concern of the society.” He further added, “Two animals have died at the hands of this defendant and they must have suffered considerably.”

Despite her denial of causing unnecessary suffering, Mann was convicted after a trial. It was also revealed that she committed this act while she was already serving a suspended prison sentence for a previous motoring offence. Her defense solicitor, Shirley Fitton, highlighted Mann’s struggles with depression, mental health issues, and alcohol dependency, asserting that she was as upset as anyone else and loved her cats dearly.

District Judge Andrew Davison condemned the act, describing it as “a dreadful offence on two poor innocent, little cats.” He characterized the crime as “sickening and cruel,” noting that the animals did not die in a sack thrown into a river but in Mann’s own hands, which he described as “most sinister.”

As part of her sentencing, Mann received a 26-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, along with a Rehabilitation Activity Requirement. She was ordered to pay costs and charges totaling £1,365. Additionally, she was disqualified from keeping animals for life, although she has the option to apply for the ban to be lifted after eight years. The case has left a lasting impact on the community and highlights the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of cruelty.