KIERAN HANDS AND APRIL PEARCE FROM COLNE BANNED AFTER HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY CASE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Colne, Lancashire, a couple, Kieran Hands and April Pearce, have been subjected to legal penalties after authorities uncovered appalling conditions in their residence. The RSPCA, acting on a tip-off, conducted an inspection of their property and discovered a total of 25 animals, including numerous dogs, living in deplorable circumstances that constituted clear neglect and cruelty.

During the inspection, the RSPCA inspector found a small, cramped room housing 12 dogs. Of these, eight were confined in wire cages stacked on top of each other, with no bedding, food, or water available to them. The conditions were so dire that one dog, a tan and white bull-type breed named Tank, was observed panting heavily and exhibiting signs of distress by constantly spinning around, a typical sign of discomfort and anxiety caused by the confined and unsanitary environment.

The court heard that the conditions in the house were not isolated incidents but part of a pattern of neglect. The inspector’s report detailed the suffering of the animals, many of whom showed signs of poor health, including unkempt coats, flea infestations, and stiffness in their limbs, which caused them pain and discomfort. The animals included a variety of breeds such as huskies, collies, a Staffordshire bull terrier, and a chihuahua. Several of these dogs, along with two cats, were found to be in a state of suffering, with some having been neglected for weeks or even longer.

Veterinary examination revealed that all the dogs had poor coat conditions and were infested with fleas. Six of the dogs, along with the cats, were in such a poor state that they required immediate treatment. The vet testified that the animals exhibited signs of pain and stiffness, with some suffering from severe leg and back issues. The vet emphasized that responsible pet owners should seek veterinary care if their animals show signs of discomfort, such as excessive scratching or changes in behavior. The failure of Hands and Pearce to seek veterinary attention for their animals was a clear breach of animal welfare standards, leading to unnecessary suffering.

In her testimony, the veterinarian stated, “I would expect a responsible dog owner to seek veterinary attention should their pet become itchy, especially if fleas are visible and the dog is scratching excessively. I would also expect them to notice if their dog is becoming stiff or painful. The owner of these animals failed to meet their needs, resulting in a compromised welfare state that could have been avoided.”

Following the discovery, the animals received necessary medical treatment, including vaccinations, steroids, and flea, worm, and ear treatments. The RSPCA took responsibility for their care, and many of the dogs have already been rehomed. Unfortunately, one dog was euthanized on veterinary advice due to severe leg and back injuries that could not be treated.

At the sentencing hearing held at Blackburn Magistrates Court on 4 April, both Kieran Hands, aged 32, and April Pearce, also aged 32, were handed suspended prison sentences of 18 weeks. Additionally, they were banned from keeping any animals for a period of five years. The court also imposed a two-year community order on each, requiring them to complete 25 days of RAR (Rehabilitation Activity Requirement). Furthermore, they were ordered to pay costs of £600 each and a victim surcharge of £154.

The magistrates emphasized the seriousness of the case, highlighting the neglect and suffering inflicted upon the animals. The court’s decision aims to prevent any future harm and to reinforce the importance of animal welfare standards in the community of Colne.