PAUL HAMILTON FROM TRURO STARVED HORSE NEARLY TO DEATH IN TRURO AREA

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community in Truro, Cornwall, Paul Hamilton, born on December 9, 1958, and formerly residing at Ennis Farm, Trispen, was found guilty of neglecting a horse named Norma, leading to severe suffering and near-fatal conditions.

Hamilton, who previously worked professionally as a horse transporter, failed to provide adequate nourishment to Norma over a period of three months, spanning from January to April 2018. Despite multiple warnings and concerns raised by vigilant neighbors, Hamilton did not take any corrective action to care for the animal. The neglect was so severe that Norma was left to endure prolonged starvation, which brought her to the brink of death.

The case came before Justice Diana Baker, who delivered a stern judgment highlighting the gravity of Hamilton’s neglect. She stated, “Norma was in your care and for such a long period of time was not properly looked after. She did not receive food and this caused real suffering and leaving her close to death.” The judge emphasized that the horse’s suffering was not incidental but a direct consequence of Hamilton’s failure to act.

According to veterinary assessments, Norma was found curled up in distress, suffering from pain and discomfort for months. The vets involved in her treatment were so concerned about her condition that they seized her immediately to prevent further suffering. Justice Baker pointed out that Hamilton ignored repeated warnings from neighbors who expressed their concerns about Norma’s welfare. Despite these warnings, Hamilton did nothing to intervene or improve her condition, forcing neighbors to step in and provide food for the horse themselves.

During the court proceedings, Hamilton claimed that his busy work schedule was a reason for his neglect. However, Justice Baker dismissed this as an inadequate excuse, emphasizing that owning a horse carries significant responsibilities. She stated, “If you have a horse, you have a responsibility. You said you had a lack of expenses. This is not an excuse. If you can’t afford to, you don’t keep horses. They require food, veterinary care, etc.”

As a result of his actions, Hamilton was sentenced to a two-year community order, which includes 240 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £385 in costs. His ability to keep equines was also restricted; he was banned from owning or keeping any horses or similar animals for three years, a ban that expired in August 2021.

This case has raised serious concerns about animal welfare and the responsibilities of pet owners in the Truro area, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of animal protection laws and greater awareness among horse owners about their duties.