GARETH FITTON

PECKHAM MAN AND TWO WOMEN BANNED FROM OWNING ANIMALS AFTER DOG’S SEVERE NEGLECT AND COLLAPSE

Gareth Fitton, from Peckham, admitted to failing to address the severe weight loss of Betty, a Staffordshire bull terrier.

The dog collapsed at a South London flat, prompting an RSPCA prosecution.

Along with Rosanne Penfold and Shane Dixon, Fitton pleaded guilty at Westminster Magistrates' Court on September 2 to offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

The court was told Betty was rescued from a flat where she was found emaciated with ribs, spine, and hips visible, and fur stained with urine.

The veterinarian confirmed Betty was suffering from muscle wastage and was rated at one out of nine for severity, indicating extreme emaciation.

Betty had wounds, ulcers, and overgrown nails, and her suffering could have been avoided with proper care, including food, water, and clean living conditions.

Fitton and Penfold received 16-week prison sentences suspended for 12 months and bans from owning animals for 10 years.

Dixon pleaded guilty to neglecting Betty’s severe weight loss, received a 14-week suspended sentence, and was ordered to complete 100 hours of unpaid work.

The defendants were also ordered to complete 10 rehabilitation activity days and pay costs and victim surcharges.

Betty has since recovered and been rehomed, and RSPCA Inspector Hone highlighted that the neglect was severe enough to cause her collapse and require hospital treatment, but she is now thriving with her new family.