CLAIRE HOPKINS GOSPORT HORSE NEGLECT SCANDAL REVEALS HORRIFIC CONDITIONS

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Claire Louise Hopkins, a resident of Tukes Avenue in Gosport, was found to have abandoned three horses at her property on Newgate Lane, Fareham, for an extended period of approximately two to three weeks during the spring season. The neglect led to the tragic death of one of the horses and severe suffering for the remaining animals.

Hopkins was charged with three offences related to the care and welfare of her horses, which included Phoebe, Fred, and Molly. The situation came to light after a concerned member of the public contacted the RSPCA, prompting inspectors to investigate the property. Upon arrival, they discovered a heartbreaking scene: Phoebe's body was found in the stable, having succumbed to neglect, while Fred was also present. Molly, the third horse, was found in an extremely emaciated state, dangerously close to death, and was later confirmed to be in-foal.

The conditions of the horses were described as horrendous by RSPCA inspector Jenny Ride. She remarked, “It was horrendous. To see a deceased horse basically rotting away and another not long from death must have been mental and physical torture.” The neglect not only caused immense suffering but also highlighted the failure to provide basic care for the animals.

Fortunately, all three horses—Fred, Molly, and her foal, Bluebell—have since been rescued and successfully rehomed, with all three placed together in a caring environment. The case underscores the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect.

In court, Claire Hopkins received a sentence of eight weeks in prison, which was suspended for 12 months. She was also ordered to complete 20 days of rehabilitation activities, pay a fine of £300, and reimburse the vet costs amounting to £274.80. Additionally, she was banned from keeping horses for three years, a ban that expired in November 2019. The case was covered by Horse & Hound, drawing attention to the ongoing issues of animal neglect in the region.