AMY CHEESEMAN FROM CARLTON-IN-LINDRICK SENTENCED FOR DOG STARVATION IN WORKSOP

Amy Cheeseman, a single mother of four residing on Beverley Walk in Carlton-in-Lindrick, near Worksop, was found guilty of neglecting her pet dog, leading to the animal's death due to severe starvation. The incident, which drew significant concern from animal welfare authorities, culminated in a court hearing where Cheeseman faced charges related to the suffering of her dog, Buddy, a Jack Russell-type breed.

On January 5, 2024, RSPCA Inspector Daniel Bradshaw visited Cheeseman’s property after receiving multiple reports and ongoing concerns about the welfare of her dogs. During this visit, the inspector was shown the outdoor run where Buddy was kept. Cheeseman claimed she believed the dog had escaped, calling out his name in an attempt to locate him. However, upon inspection, Inspector Bradshaw observed the kennel was in a deplorable state, filled with faeces, torn bedding, and a greenish film on the water, indicating neglect.

When the inspector looked inside the kennel, he discovered Buddy’s lifeless body. The dog was in rigor mortis, with teeth showing signs of severe tartar buildup and a piece of stuffing lodged in his mouth. The kennel was wet and unclean, with no dry or comfortable area for Buddy to rest. Inspector Bradshaw recounted in court that the owner had stated the dog was alive the previous afternoon, but the condition of the kennel and Buddy’s body told a different story.

Further examination and a post-mortem report revealed that Buddy had died from an acute gastrointestinal haemorrhage. The report indicated that the dog had been severely emaciated, with an estimated period of inadequate feeding spanning between six to twelve weeks or possibly longer. The veterinarian concluded that, in the absence of any other pathological cause, Buddy’s emaciation was due to starvation, highlighting the neglect he had suffered.

Cheeseman admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to Buddy by neglecting his basic needs and failing to address his deteriorating health. She also pleaded guilty to neglecting to meet the dog's essential needs, which contributed to his tragic death. The court considered the gravity of the case and initially contemplated imposing a custodial sentence. However, taking into account her early guilty plea, her history of suffering domestic violence, and her mental health issues, the magistrates decided to suspend the prison sentence.

In sentencing, Cheeseman received a 26-week prison term, suspended for 12 months. Additionally, she was ordered to complete 80 hours of unpaid work, attend 20 days of rehabilitation, and pay costs of £400 along with a £154 victim surcharge. The court also banned her from owning or keeping any animals for a period of ten years, a ban that will last until June 2034.

Inspector Bradshaw expressed his dismay after the hearing, stating, “This poor dog was left to suffer by the defendant who failed to address his drastic weight loss while keeping him in appalling living conditions outside her home.” The case underscores the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect, especially in cases where animals are left to endure suffering in silence.