Liam Orchard's Social Media Accounts
Know a Social Media Account Linked to Liam Orchard?
Want to add information? Log in to your account to contribute accounts and phone numbers.
EASTVILLE FOOTBALLER LIAM ORCHARD SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY INVOLVING STARVING PET DOG
Liam Orchard, a former footballer associated with Bristol City’s youth academy and most recently playing for Tytherington Rocks Football Club, was found guilty of severe animal cruelty in connection with his pet Staffordshire bull terrier named Spot. Orchard, who resides at Juniper Court in Eastville, Bristol, was accused of neglecting his dog to the point of emaciation, allowing it to suffer from extreme starvation and poor health.The case came to light after concerned members of the public raised alarms about Spot’s deteriorating condition. The RSPCA, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, responded swiftly to these reports, dispatching animal rescue workers to Orchard’s residence. Despite their repeated visits and offers of assistance, Orchard refused all help, showing a clear lack of cooperation. During one of these visits, Spot was taken to a veterinary clinic where the veterinarian expressed grave concern over the dog’s health. The vet ordered urgent blood tests to assess the extent of the animal’s suffering, but Orchard subsequently canceled the appointment, further delaying necessary treatment.
In a subsequent visit, RSPCA Inspector Kim Walters managed to persuade Orchard to bring Spot to the front door, where he was convinced to allow the dog to be taken to a veterinary facility. Inspector Walters described the dog’s condition in her official statement, noting that Spot was in a dire state. She observed that the dog’s ribs, spine, pelvis, and other bony prominences were prominently visible, indicating severe malnutrition. The dog’s skull appeared sunken, and he was unsteady on his feet, displaying signs of weakness and lethargy as he attempted to climb the steps. The rescue team found that Spot had clumps of feces attached to his nails and fecal staining on his elbows and hind legs. His coat was filthy, emitting a strong ammonia smell, and he was visibly suffering from neglect.
Despite his condition, Spot ate eagerly when food was offered, which was a small sign of resilience amid his suffering. At the time of rescue, the dog weighed only 10.5 kilograms (approximately 23 pounds), a stark contrast to a healthy weight for his breed and size. The images of Spot’s emaciated frame, shown during the court proceedings, caused shock and distress, especially to Orchard’s mother, who was present for the sentencing hearing and gasped upon seeing the photographs.
Concerns were also raised regarding Orchard’s recent acquisition of a new puppy. Although there were no apparent welfare issues with the new animal, authorities decided to remove the puppy from Orchard’s care following the court’s disqualification order. Fortunately, Spot has since recovered and is reported to be doing well under proper care.
During the court proceedings, Orchard’s defense cited his struggle with “anxiety” as a mitigating factor. Nonetheless, the court imposed a series of penalties, including an 18-month community order, a 30-day rehabilitation program, and a fine of £400 to cover costs. Additionally, Orchard received a ten-year disqualification order from owning or caring for animals, which can be appealed after five years.
Following the case, Inspector Kim Walters emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership. She stated, “Our plea to all animal owners is to make sure they always receive the care they need. Pets are completely reliant on their owners to ensure their needs are met and they are kept safe and healthy. Owning an animal is a privilege — and ensuring appropriate care is a key part of the responsibility we have towards our pets. It’s so sad that, in this instance, that responsibility was not met and Spot was left to suffer.”