DERBYSHIRE MAN SENTENCED FOR DOG NEGLECT LEADING TO DOG'S DEATH

A man responsible for neglecting two dogs, resulting in the death of one, has been sentenced by the courts. Corey Burgham, who was entrusted with the care of the animals on behalf of a friend early in 2024, faced legal action after a tragic incident. On 27 November, authorities responded to a residence in Willington following the death of a Pocket Bully dog. A second dog, a Staffordshire cross, was found in a severely malnourished state, taken to veterinary care, and ultimately rehomed. During police interviews, Burgham, aged 20 from Arthur Close, Willington, admitted he only fed the dogs every two to three weeks. He was charged with causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, admitted the allegations, and appeared before Southern Derbyshire Magistrates’ Court on 5 June. He was sentenced to a community order that includes 300 hours of unpaid work and participation in a rehabilitation program. He is also prohibited from owning dogs for ten years, and ordered to pay £85 in costs and a surcharge of £114. PC Benjamin Harvey, who led the investigation, stated that the dogs relied on Burgham for care but were instead left starving and confined for hours, leading to the death of one dog due to extreme emaciation. The remaining dog was subsequently treated by vets and has now found a new home. Burgham’s actions highlight the responsibilities of pet owners and the serious legal consequences of neglect.