SOPHIA MORTON FROM WESTBURY SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO BEARDED DRAGON ELLIE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Westbury, Sophia Morton, born on November 11, 1996, was found guilty of neglecting her pet bearded dragon, Ellie, leading to the reptile's tragic death. Morton, who resides at Frome House on Sandalwood Road in Westbury with the postal code BA13 3TY, deliberately left her beloved pet without food or water for an entire month, a neglect that ultimately resulted in Ellie succumbing to severe malnutrition and metabolic bone disease.

The case was brought to light by the RSPCA after veterinary professionals were compelled to euthanize Ellie due to her deteriorating health. The vets diagnosed her with metabolic bone disease, a condition caused by prolonged malnutrition, which left her suffering and unable to recover. The RSPCA’s investigation revealed that Morton had failed in her duty of care, neglecting her pet for an extended period.

Morton was initially scheduled to appear in court but failed to attend, prompting authorities to issue a warrant for her arrest. She later appeared via video link from Melksham Police Station to face the charges. Despite her absence at the initial hearing, she was eventually convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal in March 2020.

Following her conviction, Morton was sentenced in her absence to a 12-week prison term, which was suspended for two years. Additionally, she was ordered to complete 80 hours of unpaid community service, and she was required to pay costs and charges amounting to £328. As part of her punishment, Morton received a five-year ban on keeping animals, a restriction that will remain in effect until October 2025.

The case has garnered significant attention in Wiltshire, highlighting the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect. The authorities and animal rights organizations continue to emphasize the need for responsible pet ownership and the enforcement of laws designed to protect vulnerable animals from cruelty and suffering.