EMILY TILL AND STEVEN WATKINS FROM FAR FOREST SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOGS IN KIDDERMINSTER

In a case that has shocked the local community of Far Forest near Kidderminster, Emily Louise Till, born around 1984, and her partner Steven Watkins, born approximately in 1986, faced justice for their neglect of two beloved dogs. The incident came to light after a complaint was lodged with the RSPCA in January 2016, raising concerns about the welfare of the animals living at their residence on New Road, Far Forest.

Inspector Suzanne Smith from the RSPCA responded promptly to the report, visiting the property to assess the condition of the animals. What she discovered was distressing: two dogs, a Staffy named Bruno and a husky named Demon, were in a state of severe emaciation. Despite Demon’s thick coat, the inspector could see all of his bones protruding sharply, indicating extreme malnutrition. Bruno was similarly skeletal, weighing just over 11 kilograms at the time of seizure, while Demon weighed only 14 kilograms, roughly half of what a healthy husky should weigh.

Inspector Smith explained that Demon was suffering from non-regenerative anaemia, a condition caused by his extremely poor body condition. The dogs' suffering was confirmed by a veterinarian, leading to their removal from the neglectful owners and placement into the care of the RSPCA. The neglect was evident and severe, prompting immediate action to save the animals’ lives.

Following their rescue, both Bruno and Demon received extensive veterinary treatment and care. Inspector Smith noted that, although Till and Watkins initially refused to admit any wrongdoing, the dogs' health improved significantly under the RSPCA’s supervision. Both animals gained weight and returned to a healthy condition, demonstrating the positive impact of proper care.

In a fortunate turn of events, Demon, the husky, was quickly rehomed after being signed over to the RSPCA shortly after the rescue. Bruno, the Staffy, also found a new, loving forever home following the legal proceedings. Inspector Smith expressed her satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “With proper care, Bruno and Demon have recovered from their ordeal.”

The court proceedings resulted in sentencing for the offenders. Emily Till received an 18-week curfew and was ordered to pay £500 in costs. Steven Watkins was sentenced to 150 hours of community service to be completed over 12 months, along with a fine of £750. Both individuals were disqualified from owning dogs for five years, a ban that expired in 2021, and they were deprived of ownership of the two dogs involved in the case. Additionally, they were given 28 days to rehome any other dogs they had taken on prior to the trial.

This case highlights the importance of animal welfare and the consequences faced by those who neglect their pets. The community of Far Forest and Kidderminster can take some reassurance that justice has been served for Bruno and Demon, and that efforts continue to ensure the safety and well-being of animals in the area.