DEWSBURY MAN MATTHEW FALKINGHAM SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO KITTEN IN REVENGE ATTACK

In a disturbing case that shocked the Dewsbury community, Matthew Falkingham, born on August 18, 1991, and residing on Moorside Avenue in Dewsbury Moor, was found guilty of a heinous act of animal cruelty that took place in June 2010. Falkingham deliberately caused the death of his ex-girlfriend's two-month-old kitten, named Daisy, in a brutal revenge attack that has left many residents appalled.

The incident unfolded when Falkingham, in a fit of rage, placed the tiny kitten inside a pillowcase and forcefully slammed it against a wall. This violent act resulted in the kitten suffering severe internal injuries, including ruptured lungs and liver, which ultimately led to her death. The cruelty was so severe that the prosecuting attorney, Philip Brown, described the injuries as causing the animal to endure a few minutes of shock and suffering before succumbing. Brown further explained that the kitten's distress was compounded by her confinement within the pillowcase during the attack.

Following the incident, Falkingham sent a text message to his ex-girlfriend, Stacie Baker, in which he admitted to the act. The message read, “I’ve killed your cat and wrecked your stuff. I hope I have ruined your life like you have ruined mine.” This message served as a chilling confirmation of his involvement and intent.

Falkingham appeared in court in February 2011, where he pleaded guilty to charges of causing unnecessary cruelty to an animal and criminal damage. His sentencing included a four-month prison sentence, which was suspended for 12 months, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed another offense within that period. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid community work and was placed under a 12-month supervision order. As part of the court's decision, Falkingham was also banned from owning or keeping any animals for five years, a ban that expired in 2016.

This case has sparked outrage among animal lovers and residents of Dewsbury, highlighting the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of cruelty. Falkingham’s actions and subsequent sentencing serve as a stark reminder of the legal repercussions that follow such violent acts against innocent animals.