SEAHAM DOG ABUSERS CHRISTOPHER COOKE AND TONI-LEIGH BAILEY SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY

In a disturbing case of animal cruelty, Christopher Cooke and Toni-Leigh Bailey, both residents of Seaham, faced justice after their neglect of three rescue dogs was exposed. The incident came to light in January 2017 when Cooke took a severely collapsed dog named Kane to the PDSA clinic in Gateshead. The RSPCA was alerted and subsequently intervened, discovering Kane in a state of extreme emaciation, with his bones clearly visible, unable to stand or move properly. The severity of his condition indicated prolonged suffering and neglect.

Further investigations revealed that a second dog, Roxy, was also found in a dire state. Although Roxy was still standing, her ribs, spine, and hips were prominently visible, suggesting she had been starved or lacked proper nutrition for an extended period. The following day, RSPCA inspectors visited the couple’s residence on Church Street, Seaham, where they found a third dog, Boss, who was unmistakably emaciated, with bones protruding sharply from his body. A fourth dog, Suki, was also present; however, she appeared to be in comparatively better condition than the others.

During the inspection, the authorities uncovered a scene of neglect within the home. Mouldy faeces littered the premises, and various household items were scattered around, some of which could have posed a danger to the animals. Additionally, a tank containing dead fish was found, further highlighting the neglectful environment. Veterinarians who examined the dogs confirmed that they had likely suffered for several months without adequate nutrition. One veterinarian remarked that Kane was brought in at the brink of death, stating, “If he hadn’t been presented then I am certain he would have died.”

Both Cooke and Bailey claimed they had made efforts to feed their pets, with Cooke asserting that he spent approximately £200 each month on dog food. However, these claims were challenged by a probation officer, who dismissed Cooke’s assertion that he had consulted a vet friend for advice, which supposedly included giving the dogs tripe and dog biscuits.

In mitigation, Tom Morgan, representing the defendants, emphasized their apparent love for animals, stating that they had rescued the dogs in an attempt to provide them with better care. Despite this, the court found their actions to be a clear case of neglect and cruelty.

Ultimately, Christopher Cooke and Toni-Leigh Bailey were sentenced to 12 weeks in custody, suspended for 18 months. They were also ordered to complete 300 hours of unpaid work and attend 10 days of rehabilitation programs. Each was fined £715 in costs and received a ban from keeping animals for ten years. The case underscores the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglecting those who cannot speak for themselves.

As of September 2019, Toni-Leigh Bailey has married and now goes by the name Toni Allen, residing on Oxford Street, South Shields, NE33 4BH. Christopher Cooke currently lives on Coach Road Estate, Washington, NE37 2EX.