SARAH BURNHAM AND LOUISE WOOD FROM CHESTERFIELD SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC ANIMAL ABUSE IN HOLMEWOOD

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Chesterfield, two women, Sarah Burnham and Louise Wood, were found guilty of subjecting a total of 22 animals to unimaginable suffering. The animals, consisting of 19 dogs and three cats, were kept in deplorable conditions at a former shared residence on Hunloke Road, Holmewood, Chesterfield.

Investigations revealed that the animals were confined in dark, cramped rooms, where they endured severe neglect and filth. The environment was described as filthy and squalid, with excrement scattered around, highlighting the extent of the neglect inflicted upon these helpless creatures.

Sarah Burnham, born on March 10, 1991, and Louise Wood, born circa 1957, were both charged with causing unnecessary suffering to the animals. Their actions took place over a period from October 2017 to January 2018, during which the animals were subjected to conditions that severely compromised their wellbeing.

Both women pleaded guilty to the charges, acknowledging their role in the mistreatment. Burnham, who is now reported to have no fixed address, and Wood, who resides at Edensor Court, Middlecroft, Chesterfield, faced sentencing for their crimes.

The court imposed a fine of £360 on each woman, along with a victim surcharge of £36. Additionally, they were ordered to pay £300 in court costs. As part of their punishment, both Burnham and Wood received a lifelong ban on keeping animals, a restriction that will remain in effect for at least ten years, with no possibility of lifting the order during that period.

This case has brought to light the serious issue of animal cruelty within the Chesterfield area, prompting calls for increased vigilance and stronger enforcement of animal welfare laws. The community and animal rights advocates hope that such measures will prevent similar cases from occurring in the future.