DIANE, CHLOE AND AMY MARTIN FROM TOTTENHAM SHOCKING DOG ABUSE CASE

In a disturbing case of animal cruelty, three members of the Martin family from Tottenham have been found guilty of neglecting and starving their pet dog, an Akita, to the point of near death. Diane Martin, born around 1957, along with her daughters Chloe Martin, born circa 1990, and Amy Martin, born around 1991, all resided at Somerset Close, Tottenham N17 6DN. Their heinous actions came to light in September 2012 when the RSPCA inspector Virginia Ross conducted a routine inspection and uncovered the severely malnourished dog.

Inspector Ross discovered that the dog was confined in a room that was in a deplorable state, littered with her own waste, indicating neglect and poor living conditions. A baby gate had been placed across the door to prevent the dog from escaping, but it was clear that the animal was suffering immensely. The inspector observed that the dog, known as Akita, was emaciated, with her hips, ribs, and spine prominently visible through her fur, a clear sign of extreme starvation.

During questioning, Chloe Martin claimed that the dog belonged to her sister’s ex-boyfriend. The court was informed that the family had initially intended to sell the dog but had neglected her for approximately a month before she was taken away for her safety. A forensic veterinary surgeon examined Akita and reported that she weighed a mere 5.7 kilograms, nearly half of her normal body weight. The veterinarian also noted that the dog was so desperate for food that she had begun trying to digest her own bed in her frantic hunger.

By November 2012, the dog’s condition had slightly improved, with her weight increasing to 10.65 kilograms. Fortunately, Akita was eventually rehomed and placed in a caring environment. The court heard that Amy Martin was the only family member to receive a ban from owning or keeping a dog, reflecting her direct involvement in the neglect.

During the sentencing hearing, chair of the bench Anita Morgan addressed Amy Martin directly, stating, “You purposefully treated this dog in an appalling way.” Amy Martin was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison, suspended for a year, along with 200 hours of unpaid work. She was also banned from owning or keeping a dog for five years, a restriction that expired in 2018. Chloe Martin received a 12-month community order and was subjected to an eight-week electronically monitored curfew. Diane Martin was given a 12-month community order and ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work.

This case highlights the severity of animal cruelty and the importance of vigilant enforcement to protect vulnerable animals from such inhumane treatment. The incident has garnered significant attention from local authorities and animal welfare organizations, emphasizing the need for ongoing oversight and education to prevent similar cases in the future.