LEANNNE MCCONNELL'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL ABUSE IN WALTON REVEALED

In June 2022, a disturbing case of animal neglect came to light involving Leanne McConnell, a woman residing in Walton, who faced severe legal consequences for her treatment of her pets. The RSPCA inspectors uncovered a scene of unimaginable cruelty and neglect at her residence, which led to her being banned from owning animals for a period of twelve years.

McConnell’s home, located on Hollingbourne Road in the Norris Green area of Liverpool, was found to be in a deplorable state. The interior was littered with rubbish and animal feces, and the pervasive smell of urine filled the air, reflecting a complete disregard for hygiene and animal welfare. The conditions inside the property were so appalling that the inspectors were immediately struck by the level of filth and neglect.

During their visit in November 2021, prompted by concerns from members of the public, RSPCA animal welfare inspector Anthony Joynes, accompanied by police officers, entered the premises. The scene they encountered was shocking and distressing. McConnell, who was 31 years old at the time, was contacted and eventually arrived at the house to allow access. Inside, the inspectors discovered a horrifying situation involving her pets.

One of the most disturbing findings was a cat, which McConnell had named ‘Fat S***,’ actively eating the remains of another cat named ‘Tilly.’ The surviving cat was found with a matted coat and bones protruding sharply through its skin, clearly emaciated and suffering. The carcass of Tilly was in a state of advanced decomposition, with her rear legs and pelvic region stripped of soft tissue, leaving only exposed bones. The carcass was so poorly preserved that it was described as being in very poor condition, with minimal muscle and tissue remaining.

In addition to the cats, a dog named ‘Chunks’ was also discovered at the property. Both animals were severely undernourished, dehydrated, and distressed, highlighting the extent of neglect. Inspector Joynes described the scene, stating, “All of the bones of the male tabby cat were easily palpable through his skin. He also had a marked skin tent and was clearly distressed being found actively feeding on a deceased black and white cat.”

Photographs taken at the scene, which were presented in court, showed the cat’s body lying on the bathroom floor amidst dirt and an empty food tray, emphasizing the neglect and squalor of the environment.

Veterinary surgeon Vanessa Whitfield conducted a post-mortem examination on Tilly. Although the results were inconclusive, the court was informed that the most probable cause of death was severe malnutrition or inadequate nutrition. The examination revealed that a significant portion of the cat’s abdominal organs, muscle tissue, and skin was missing, with evidence suggesting that the surviving cat had eaten parts of her. Dr. Whitfield explained, “The two cats and dogs were allowed to suffer due to a lack of accessible, clean, and fresh water, leading to thirst, dehydration, and contributing to the death of one of the cats.”

Earlier in the year, McConnell had admitted to three charges of causing unnecessary suffering to protected animals and a fourth charge of failing to meet the animals’ basic needs at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court. As a result, she was sentenced to a six-month jail term, which was suspended for one year. Additionally, she received a twelve-year ban on owning animals, a fine of £200, court costs totaling £400, and was ordered to pay £447 in RSPCA medical expenses. McConnell, now residing on Andrew Street in Walton, was thus held accountable for her role in the severe neglect and suffering inflicted upon her pets.