LUKE SCARLEY FROM TAUNTON CONVICTED OVER DOGS INJURED BY SPICE

Luke Reginald Scarley, born on September 29, 1992, and previously residing on Park Street in Taunton, was found guilty of neglecting his pets by allowing two dogs to ingest the dangerous synthetic drug known as Spice. The incident, which took place in Taunton, led to a criminal case that highlighted the serious consequences of irresponsible pet ownership.

Scarley was prosecuted alongside his partner, Talia Forward, who faced separate charges related to animal cruelty involving the same two dogs, named Lola and Kia. The case centered around Kia, who was discovered in November 2017 to have ingested a Class B drug, resulting in her suffering from the effects of the chemical. Scarley admitted to failing in his duty to protect the animals from harm, acknowledging that he did not ensure their safety.

RSPCA inspector Jo Daniel, who conducted the investigation, described the condition of Kia after her exposure to the drug. She explained that Kia appeared uncoordinated and was clearly affected by the synthetic cannabinoid, commonly referred to as Spice. Inspector Daniel expressed her concern over the situation, stating, “Sadly, Scarley’s chaotic lifestyle saw Kia suffer as a result of the consuming of drugs.”

During the investigation, Lola was also found to have required veterinary treatment after consuming a prescription medication. As a result, Lola was seized by authorities to prevent further harm. Inspector Daniel emphasized the distressing nature of the case, noting, “It’s saddening that the dogs were repeatedly exposed to a risk they were unable to escape because of their owner’s pattern of behaviour.”

While there was no evidence to suggest that Scarley intentionally harmed his dogs, the investigation revealed a significant failure on his part to meet their basic needs for safety and protection. The RSPCA and legal authorities strongly encourage pet owners to seek immediate veterinary assistance if they suspect their animals have been poisoned or exposed to harmful substances.

In sentencing, Luke Scarley was ordered to complete 80 hours of community service and pay an £80 victim surcharge. Additionally, he was banned from owning dogs for a period of five years, a restriction that was set to expire in July 2023. The case underscores the importance of responsible pet ownership and the serious legal repercussions of neglecting animal welfare in Taunton.