PAIGE LAVERTY'S HORRIFIC CRUELTY IN HALIFAX: DOG ROCCO LEFT TO SUFFER IN ILLINGWORTH ROAD

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Halifax, Paige Laverty, born on June 23, 2005, and residing on Illingworth Road, HX2 9EN, has been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a young dog named Rocco. The incident, which came to light in August 2024, revealed the extent of neglect and cruelty inflicted upon the one-year-old Staffy cross, leading to tragic consequences.

According to reports, RSPCA Animal Rescue Officers Emmeline Myall and Jade Barber responded to a distress call from a concerned member of the public who had reported the condition of the dog at Laverty’s address. Upon arrival, the officers were confronted with a heartbreaking sight: Rocco was in a severely compromised state, with ribs, spine, and hip bones prominently visible through his emaciated frame. His skull was also clearly discernible, indicating significant muscle wastage and malnutrition.

Officer Barber described the scene, stating, “His discharge was coming from his eyes, and he lacked the strength to lift his head. His fur was wet, and there was a strong smell of ammonia in the air.” The officers quickly transported Rocco to a veterinary clinic for urgent assessment. During the examination, the dog exhibited signs of extreme suffering; he “just groaned” as vets tried to evaluate his condition. Despite efforts to offer him comfort, including a dog treat, Rocco was too weak to even open his mouth fully, quickly giving up on the attempt.

The veterinary diagnosis confirmed the severity of Rocco’s condition. He was suffering from muscle loss, dehydration, urine burns, hypothermia, and an inability to move. The vets concluded that the dog’s suffering was so severe that euthanasia was the only humane option. The decision was made to put Rocco to sleep, a heartbreaking end to a tragic case of neglect.

During the court proceedings, Laverty admitted to causing Rocco unnecessary suffering by neglecting his basic needs, including proper nutrition and failing to investigate his weight loss, in violation of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Her legal representative attempted to justify her actions by claiming she was “young” and that the neglect was “not intentional,” but these arguments did little to mitigate the severity of her actions.

In sentencing, the court handed down a 20-week jail term, which was suspended for 18 months. Laverty was also ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid work, pay costs of £400, and a victim surcharge of £187. Additionally, she was banned from keeping any animals for a period of 10 years, a ban that will expire in March 2035. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect in Halifax.