JUNE AND ROBERT REDFORD FROM BLYTH FACE JUSTICE OVER CRUELTY TO PETS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Blyth, June Redford and her son Robert Redford have been held accountable for their neglect and mistreatment of beloved pets, revealing a long history of cruelty and squalor within their household. The case, which unfolded in the courts, brought to light the appalling conditions in which Gizmo, Rocco, and other animals were kept, highlighting the tragic consequences of neglect and the importance of animal welfare enforcement.

June Redford, born on July 3, 1958, previously residing on Oxford Street in Blyth, was found responsible for the severe suffering of her dogs. Her son, Robert Redford, born on March 13, 1978, who lived at 30 Richard Street, Blyth NE24 2HF, was also implicated in the case. The investigation revealed that both individuals had failed in their basic responsibilities as pet owners, leading to the rescue of animals in dire conditions.

The case came to public attention after a veterinary nurse from St Clair Veterinary Care in Blyth raised concerns about a deceased dog, Bambi, a male Chihuahua cross. The owner, June Redford, had brought Bambi into the clinic, inquiring about the costs of cremation. The veterinary staff, noticing Bambi’s emaciated state—rated 2 out of 9—and severe flea infestation, reported their concerns to an animal welfare officer on October 11, 2018. A post-mortem examination confirmed prolonged malnutrition, dehydration, and a heavy flea infestation, indicating a prolonged period of neglect.

On the same evening, the welfare officer was contacted by Alexa’s Animals dog rescue, which had been handed over a female Shih Tzu named Xena by June Redford. The owner explained she was facing eviction and needed to rehome Xena. The following day, a veterinarian examined Xena and found her in a poor condition, with a heavily matted coat, large tats, and a significant flea infestation that had likely persisted for weeks or months. This raised further concerns about the overall welfare of animals in the Redford household.

Authorities obtained a warrant to search the property on Oxford Street, Blyth, where they discovered a scene of squalor. The residence was damp, with waste piled high in every room, no functioning bathroom, and a pungent, overwhelming smell. Inside, they found Gizmo, a male Chihuahua, covered in scabs and crawling with live fleas. Gizmo was immediately taken to the vet for treatment, receiving flea medication and a health check before being transferred to Alexa’s Animal Rescue Centre.

During police interviews, June Redford admitted ownership of Bambi for over four years. She acknowledged that Bambi had fleas but claimed it was not excessive. She also admitted that despite Bambi stopping eating and drinking, she did not seek veterinary help. Regarding Xena and Gizmo, she noted scabs on both but denied the presence of fleas. Fortunately, both dogs have since been rehabilitated and are now enjoying life with their new owners.

The investigation did not stop there. In a separate incident, Robert Redford was also brought before the courts following an animal welfare inspection at his residence. In October 2018, officers found Rocco, an elderly Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross, in a state of severe neglect. Rocco was stiff, weak, and clearly in distress, with extensive flea infestation, hair loss, raw and red skin, sores on his legs, and a large lump on his hind leg. The home’s hallway was littered with dog feces, further illustrating the neglect.

Rocco was taken to the vet, where he received flea treatment, pain relief, and antibiotics. He was then transferred to Alexa’s Animals for ongoing care. A follow-up examination a few weeks later showed significant improvement, but sadly, due to his advanced age and deteriorating mobility, Rocco was eventually euthanized. The vet’s report highlighted the suffering Rocco endured due to long-term neglect, which could have been prevented had he received timely treatment.

In December 2018, June Redford was interviewed under caution. She admitted that she had not sought treatment for Rocco due to financial constraints and expressed embarrassment over his condition. Despite Rocco being registered with the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) in Newcastle, he had never been taken for veterinary care, underscoring the neglect.

Sentencing for the Redford family was handed down in court. June Redford received a 12-month community order, including 25 days of rehabilitation activities, a fine of £200, and ordered to pay costs of £250 along with a victim surcharge of £90. She was also disqualified from owning any animals for ten years, a ban set to expire in October 2030. Robert Redford was similarly sentenced to a 12-month community order with 20 days of rehabilitation, a £100 fine, and the same costs and surcharge. He was disqualified from keeping animals for five years, with the ban ending in October 2025.

This case underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and enforcement in animal welfare, highlighting the tragic consequences of neglect and the importance of holding offenders accountable to protect vulnerable animals from suffering.