MAN BANNED FROM KEEPING ANIMALS AFTER KITTEN DEATH
A man was sentenced following acts of extreme cruelty that resulted in a kitten’s death.Ben Murkin, who lives on Mill Lane in Fordham, Ely, appeared in Cambridge Crown Court for sentencing after charges brought by the RSPCA.
He had previously pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to Whisper, a ragdoll kitten, by inflicting injuries that caused trauma.
Murkin also admitted neglecting to seek veterinary treatment promptly for the injured cat’s gums and fractured canine tooth.
The court was told that Whisper suffered a range of injuries, ultimately leading to her demise.
RSPCA Inspector Emily Astillberry described the cruelty: "The actions in this case were of astonishing cruelty to a defenceless animal.
"It is heartbreaking to hear what Whisper - this small ragdoll kitten - had to endure such cruel and sustained suffering.
"She was still so young when she died and had to endure such pain and suffering during this short life." An independent post-mortem revealed bruising around her head, bleeding in her left eye, and reddening and bruising in her tail.
Mechanical pressure consistent with a human grip was observed on multiple limbs, which Murkin claimed was due to "inappropriate CPR" The examination also uncovered both old and recent fractures of ribs, as well as a fracture on her lumbar vertebrae.
Murkin had also ignored veterinary advice on two occasions.
This included a December 2023 visit after a fall, and a February 2024 visit for a fractured tooth and inflamed gums.
The RSPCA's investigation was prompted by concerns following Whisper’s death.
A family member reported that the kitten had fallen and was struggling to breathe, prompting a veterinary call, but the animal was already dead when they arrived.
Initially brought into the world as emotional support with his girlfriend, Murkin grew resentful of Whisper after their relationship ended.
The court detailed instances of physical violence, such as kicking the cat in February 2024, which caused a fracture, and acts in March that involved kicking Whisper against a wall, grasping her by the tail, throwing her down stairs, and hitting her against a door.
The judge characterized Murkin’s conduct as 'astonishing cruelty' and classified the case as one of the highest severity because of the repeated, forceful injuries leading to the animal’s death.
Despite expressing remorse and shame, Murkin received a 22-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months.
He was also ordered to do 240 hours of community service, attend 20 Rehabilitation Activity requirement days, and was banned indefinitely from owning or caring for animals.
Court costs of £500 and a victim surcharge of £187 were also imposed.
