SARA JANE REEVES FROM SWINDON SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO KITTEN IN HAYDON WICK

Sarah Jane Reeves, born on November 23, 1995, and residing on Frobisher Drive in Swindon with the postcode SN3 3HB, was convicted of severe animal cruelty involving her six-month-old kitten, Tilly. The tragic case unfolded in the suburb of Haydon Wick, where Reeves was found to have subjected her pet to brutal treatment that ultimately led to the kitten's death.

Reeves owned Tilly, a young feline who was subjected to extreme neglect and violence. The animal was found in a dire state, having been starved to a third of her normal body weight and beaten. The incident came to light after Reeves discovered that a friend had been filmed throwing the tiny cat against the walls of her home. This footage prompted concern and led to the involvement of animal welfare authorities.

The RSPCA was called to a property on Speedwell Close, where they found Tilly under a blanket on the sofa. The kitten was cold to the touch and appeared to be in a critical condition. Despite efforts to save her, Tilly was beyond help and had to be euthanised on humane grounds. The authorities described her condition as 'clearly dying,' emphasizing the severity of her suffering.

Prosecutor Tanya Jones provided details to the court, stating that RSPCA inspector Miranda Albinson was informed about the incident two days prior. She was told that there was video evidence of the abuse. Upon inspection, the inspector observed that Tilly was emaciated, with ribs and hip bones protruding, indicating extreme malnutrition and neglect. The inspector noted that a typical cat of Tilly's age would weigh approximately two to three kilograms, and her condition suggested rapid deterioration over a very short period.

During the court proceedings, Reeves' defense lawyer, Terry McCarthy, argued that much of the suffering inflicted on Tilly was not entirely Reeves' fault. The case also involved a 16-year-old youth who was tried separately for his role in the incident. The youth received a community order and a ten-year ban on keeping animals.

The court ultimately sentenced Reeves to a community order lasting 12 months, which includes six months of supervision and 100 hours of unpaid work. She was also ordered to pay £500 in court costs and a £60 victim surcharge. Additionally, Reeves was banned from owning or keeping any animals for a period of ten years, with the ban set to expire in April 2025.

This case highlights the ongoing issues of animal cruelty in Swindon and the importance of vigilant reporting and enforcement to protect vulnerable animals from abuse.