SOPHIE DELUCE'S HORRIFIC NEGLECT IN SURREY LEADS TO PONY'S DEATH
In a distressing case of animal neglect, Sophie Michelle Deluce, formerly known as Sophie Morris, faced court proceedings after her failure to care for a vulnerable pony named Clyde, who was left in a field on Mill Way in Leatherhead, Surrey.The incident came to light when Clyde, a skewbald cob gelding, was discovered in a severely neglected state, suffering from a severe parasite infestation and other health issues.
Deluce, a resident of Surrey, pleaded guilty to the charges of neglect, which involved neglecting the basic needs of the pony.
The case was brought to attention after a World Horse Welfare officer, Becky Carter, found Clyde in a dire condition and promptly contacted the RSPCA for assistance.
Animal Rescue Officer Samantha Matthews responded to the scene and, along with a veterinarian, conducted an assessment of Clyde on April 22, 2024.
During her testimony in court, Samantha Matthews described the condition of the pony: “The pony had lice over his body and a high temperature.
He had what appeared to be a swelling under his stomach and around the sheath area, which the vet felt was possibly caused by parasites.” The veterinarian diagnosed Clyde with ventral oedema and a swollen sheath, conditions indicative of severe neglect and parasitic infestation.
The pony was immediately transported to an equine veterinary clinic for urgent treatment.
Following treatment, Clyde showed signs of improvement and was placed under the care of the RSPCA.
The defendant, Deluce, signed over ownership of the pony to the animal charity, demonstrating her acknowledgment of the situation.
However, further medical examinations revealed that Clyde was suffering from liver disease, which had a poor prognosis.
Despite efforts to treat his ailments, Clyde’s condition deteriorated, and it was ultimately decided that euthanasia was the most compassionate option to prevent further suffering.
The court heard that Deluce was experiencing mental health issues, which she claimed contributed to her neglectful actions.
She has since lodged an appeal against her disqualification order, which bans her from owning or caring for horses for a period of seven years, a restriction set to expire in March 2032.
After the sentencing, RSPCA Inspector Natalie Kitchin, who was involved in the investigation, expressed her concerns: “The defendant didn’t worm this poor pony, and he suffered from a horrible parasite infection that left him in an appalling condition.
Despite spending time at an RSPCA animal centre, Clyde’s liver was failing, and sadly, he was unable to recover.” In court, Deluce was fined £120, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £48, and court costs of £400.
The judge also imposed a seven-year ban on her from keeping horses, a measure aimed at preventing similar neglect in the future.
This case highlights the importance of animal welfare and the serious consequences of neglecting vulnerable animals in Surrey and beyond.
