KEELEY BOSWELL AND PAUL FLEMMING FROM CHATHAM BANNED AFTER HORRIFIC ANIMAL ABUSE CASE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Chatham, Kent, serial animal abuser Keeley Boswell and her partner Paul Flemming faced court proceedings following a series of neglect and cruelty incidents involving their pets. The couple, residing on Gerald Avenue in Chatham with the postcode ME4 5TF, have been subjected to legal action after their dog suffered a severe injury that ultimately led to the amputation of its leg.

It was revealed that Keeley Boswell, born on September 18, 1986, had a history of animal cruelty. She was previously disqualified from keeping animals due to her involvement in the neglect of a Rottweiler named Bella and a Staffordshire Bull Terrier called Rizla. The neglect was so severe that Bella was emaciated and riddled with fleas, and Rizla had to be euthanized to end her suffering.

The latest incident came to light in June 2018 when RSPCA inspectors visited the residence shared by Boswell and Flemming. During their inspection, they discovered two animals suffering from neglect: a 10-month-old Chihuahua named Sandie and a cat called Princess. Both animals were found to be infested with fleas, and Sandie exhibited a deformed forelimb, which was covered in fleas and showed signs of injury.

Veterinary examinations confirmed that Sandie had suffered a painful leg fracture, which had occurred at least three weeks prior to the inspection. The injury was caused by significant force, indicating deliberate harm. The veterinary report highlighted the severity of the abuse, and the condition of the animals pointed to ongoing neglect.

When questioned in court, Keeley Boswell admitted to being aware of her ban from keeping animals but was uncertain whether the restriction was still active at the time of the latest incidents. She also acknowledged that Sandie’s leg did not appear to be straight, indicating her awareness of the injury. Paul Flemming claimed he had not noticed any issues with Sandie’s leg but admitted that he should have taken her to the vet for treatment.

The couple’s solicitor requested that magistrates impose community orders rather than custodial sentences, citing their responsibilities as parents to multiple children and Flemming’s role as the sole breadwinner in the household. However, the court found sufficient grounds for conviction on multiple charges.

In addition to animal cruelty charges, Keeley Boswell was convicted of breaching a previous disqualification order, while Paul Flemming was found guilty of aiding and abetting this breach. The court sentenced the pair to an 18-week suspended prison sentence, along with 400 hours of unpaid work and additional rehabilitation sessions. They were also ordered to pay £450 in court costs. Furthermore, both individuals received a ten-year ban from keeping animals, which will expire in May 2029.

This case underscores the ongoing issues of animal cruelty in the Chatham area and highlights the importance of vigilant enforcement of animal welfare laws to prevent such suffering in the future.