EXETER WOMAN CLAIRE HUGHES SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO EMACIATED DOG LILY IN SHOCKING CASE

In a distressing case that has shocked the community of Exeter, Claire Hughes, born on June 10, 1989, and residing on Burnthouse Lane, was convicted in 2018 for the severe mistreatment of a dog named Lily. The incident drew significant attention from animal welfare authorities after Lily was discovered in a critically neglected state, suffering from extreme emaciation that indicated prolonged neglect and suffering.

Hughes faced charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, admitting to two separate offences. The first involved causing unnecessary suffering to Lily, a dog whose condition was so dire that it prompted immediate intervention from the RSPCA. The second offence was related to her failure to meet Lily’s basic needs, including proper nutrition and medical care. Despite the efforts of the RSPCA to save her, Lily’s condition was so severe that she ultimately succumbed to her injuries and neglect.

According to reports, Lily was found in a deplorable state, with her body so emaciated that her bones were visibly protruding. An RSPCA officer responded swiftly, rushing her to a veterinary clinic in an attempt to save her life. Unfortunately, the damage was too extensive, and Lily passed away despite the veterinary team's best efforts. The heartbreaking images of Lily, including a photograph from her owner’s Facebook page, circulated widely, highlighting the cruelty she endured.

RSPCA Inspector Marije Zwager, who led the investigation, expressed her frustration and sadness over the case. She stated, “This was a frustrating and saddening case where a dog was left to suffer without the care she desperately needed. Lily was in a shocking condition when we saw her, it would have been obvious to anyone looking at her she was in need of urgent care. Those who own animals have a responsibility to look after them and ensure health conditions are dealt with promptly by a vet to avoid their pets suffering. It is never acceptable to ignore an animal in need.”

In court, Hughes was sentenced to eight weeks in custody, suspended for twelve months, for each of the two offences, with the sentences running concurrently. Additionally, she was ordered to pay £365 in costs and charges. As part of her punishment, Hughes was disqualified from owning or keeping any animals for a period of ten years, a ban that will expire in October 2028. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect and cruelty in Exeter.