JAY CLARKE OF CRAWLEY BANNED AFTER CRUELTY TO POORLY DOGS

Jay Clarke, a breeder from Crawley born on January 29, 1955, residing at 10 Black Dog Walk, Northgate, RH10 8HL, was convicted in 2022 for cruelty to 14 dogs kept in unsanitary conditions. Clarke, depicted in a photo from around 2010, was described in court as an experienced dog breeder who had previously participated in dog shows. She received a lifetime ban from keeping animals following her conviction related to the mistreatment of 14 dogs, a case that unfolded after her husband Gordon Clarke was also convicted earlier, in January 2022.

The RSPCA responded to concerns about the welfare of animals at the Clarkes’ home on Black Dog Walk. On April 6, 2021, officers visited the property and noted poor conditions. Sussex Police obtained a warrant and, two days later on April 8, accompanied by an independent veterinarian, seized a total of 16 dogs and two cats. These animals were later handed over to the RSPCA for rehoming.

RSPCA inspector Tony Woodley led the investigation and detailed his findings in a witness statement. He described the home’s interior as dimly lit, with the main living area containing a sofa and a large TV, accessible to the cats, Rottweilers, and chihuahuas, with food and water bowls present in this space.

Behind this area was roughly a 4-meter by 2.5-meter section where spaniels were kept. This space had a strong odor, with walls and floors stained with feces and dirt. Inside, there was a human bed with a stained, brown mattress and similarly soiled blankets. The concrete floor was incomplete in parts, and two dogs were seen cowering near a missing drawer in a wooden chest. No food or water bowls were present there, although dog food was visible but inaccessible.

Inspector Woodley expressed alarm at the condition of many animals, noting a general lack of care. He observed that the spaniels appeared to have been roughly de-matted with a sharp implement, and several had open wounds. The vet who examined the animals found many with untreated dental issues, ear infections, eye problems, skin conditions, some lamed, and at least one with infected wounds. Two spaniels were in severe condition, including Betty, a female brown spaniel who was urgently taken to the vet for emergency treatment.

Betty was in such poor health that, after assessment, she was put to sleep to prevent further suffering. Inspector Woodley stated that two police officers volunteered to escort her directly to the vet in an emergency.

In sentencing, Jay Clarke received a 26-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, and was ordered to complete ten rehabilitation activity requirement sessions. Additionally, she was fined £1,000 plus a victim surcharge of £128. Clarke was also disqualified from keeping any animals for life.