JONATHON CARTWRIGHT AND KIM MORRISON FROM DARLINGTON SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY INVOLVING MALNOURISHED DOGS

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Jonathon Cartwright, born circa 1995, and Kimberley O’Neill, also known as Kim Morrison, born on January 7, 1988, both residents of Darlington in County Durham DL3, have been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to two dogs kept in deplorable conditions. The dogs, described as ravenous and extremely thirsty, were found living in a filthy, cluttered garden that was clearly unsuitable for their care.

On May 17, 2024, RSPCA Inspector Clare Wilson responded to reports of two malnourished dogs seen in the rear garden of the couple’s property. Her visit revealed a scene of neglect and squalor. In her detailed statement to the court, Inspector Wilson described the conditions she encountered: "As I went out of the rear door from the kitchen, it was obvious the drains were blocked, and there was sewage over the flags in the sheltered area at the side of the house. I carefully made my way into the garden, which was strewn with scrap metal, rubbish, a bed base, an old mattress, and various possessions and toys scattered about."

She further explained that there was no clean bedding available for the dogs, and their bowls were upturned, leaving them without access to food or water. The inspector observed Fudge, a male crossbreed, with short hair that revealed all his bones protruding sharply through his skin. His head appeared very angular, with visible skull, shoulder blades, spine, ribs, and pelvic bones, giving him a spiky appearance. Bella, a female crossbreed with longer fur, also showed signs of severe malnutrition; her spine, ribs, and pelvic bones were similarly prominent and spiky, and she had a very marked waist.

During questioning, Cartwright admitted that a family member had previously taken the dogs to a veterinarian, but he could not recall the date or the clinic’s name. Both dogs had been signed over to the RSPCA by the defendants. When brought to the vet, the dogs immediately drank water, indicating their extreme thirst. The veterinarian’s examination revealed alarming weight deficiencies: Fudge, who should have weighed over 25kg, was only 13.1kg, while Bella, expected to be over 18kg, weighed just 10.5kg.

Following their rescue, the dogs were placed on carefully monitored feeding plans to prevent refeeding syndrome. By June 18, Fudge’s weight had increased to 20.1kg, a 53% gain, and Bella’s weight had risen by 54% to 16.15kg. Prior to rehoming, the RSPCA funded their spaying and neutering procedures. Bella also underwent dental treatment, including the removal of a fractured tooth. The dogs received care at the charity’s Leeds, Wakefield & District Branch and a private boarding facility, respectively.

Both Cartwright and O’Neill pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering and neglecting the animals’ basic needs between April 16 and May 18, 2024. The court heard that they failed to provide a diet with adequate nutritional value, leading to the severe malnutrition observed. Inspector Wilson commented after the sentencing, saying, “Thankfully, Bella and Fudge recovered quickly in our care and found loving forever homes. I would urge anyone to think carefully about the ongoing needs of any animal before taking them on and whether they can meet those needs in the years to come if circumstances change.”

In sentencing, Jonathon Cartwright received an 18-month community order, which includes 80 hours of unpaid work, 20 days of rehabilitation, and costs totaling £180, along with a £114 victim surcharge. Kimberley O’Neill was sentenced to a 12-month community order, with 80 hours of unpaid work, 15 days of rehabilitation, and similar financial penalties. Both individuals were also handed 10-year bans from keeping animals, serving as a stern reminder of the consequences of neglecting animal welfare.