CY AND MILLIE WHITHAM'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL ABUSE IN IPSWICH REVEALED

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Ipswich, Cy and Millie Whitham faced justice after their involvement in the neglect and abuse of multiple dogs at their residence. Cy Whitham, born on June 13, 1992, and most recently residing on Blenheim Road, was convicted of leaving three dogs to die from starvation, with only one surviving the ordeal. His mother, Millie Geraldine Whitham, born around 1965 and living on Defoe Road, was also implicated in the case.

The incident came to light when a pest control officer discovered a severely emaciated Staffordshire Bull Terrier, later named Lottie, inside an Ipswich flat. The dog was found in a deplorable state, surrounded by her own excrement and in a room filled with filth. The dog’s condition was shocking; she weighed only half of what a healthy adult Staffie should, with minimal access to food and water. The pest controller, upon opening the door, was met with a heartbreaking sight as the dog immediately tried to scavenge for any scraps of food, even attempting to eat biscuits offered to her. RSPCA Inspector Jason Finch, who responded to the scene, described her condition as one of the worst he had seen in over a decade, remarking, “When I saw her I couldn’t believe she was still alive.”

Thanks to the care provided by the RSPCA, Lottie gradually regained weight and health. Her story became a symbol of resilience amid cruelty. However, the investigation also uncovered the tragic fate of two other dogs, whose decomposed bodies were found in a shed at the same property. The bodies had been left to rot for approximately a month, and due to advanced decomposition, authorities were unable to determine their breed or cause of death.

Both Cy and Millie Whitham denied any involvement with the deceased animals, despite the evidence pointing to their neglect. The case drew significant attention from local authorities and animal welfare organizations, highlighting the severity of animal cruelty cases in the area.

In addition to the animal abuse charges, Cy Whitham’s criminal record includes a conviction in September 2014 for assaulting an ex-girlfriend, which resulted in an eight-month jail sentence. More recently, in February 2018, he was sentenced to 28 months in prison for dealing heroin and cannabis. These prior convictions underscored a pattern of violent and criminal behavior.

During sentencing, Cy Whitham received an 18-week jail term, while his mother, Millie Whitham, was sentenced to 12 weeks behind bars. Both were also handed a ban from keeping animals for 15 years, a restriction that will remain in effect until January 2028. The case has served as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the need for vigilance against cruelty in communities like Ipswich.