STACEY CRAWFORD AND CRAIG HORSFALL FROM ILLINGWORTH SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC DOG ABUSE IN HALIFAX

 |  Red Rose Database

Illingworth Animal Abuser
In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Illingworth near Halifax, West Yorkshire, two individuals, Stacey Crawford and Craig Horsfall, have been convicted of heinous animal cruelty involving the neglect and starvation of a one-year-old bull terrier named Lenny.

According to reports, Crawford, born on November 19, 1988, and residing at 9 Sefton Terrace, Halifax HX1 5RE, along with Horsfall, born on October 5, 1985, of 78 Illingworth Road, Halifax HX2 9EJ, deliberately left their pet to suffer a slow and agonizing death over several weeks. The dog was confined within a small puppy cage inside their home, where it was subjected to neglect and starvation. The owners claimed that they had ceased feeding Lenny because he would bite when food was placed in his cage. They also stated that they did not seek help for him because they lacked credit on their phones, which prevented them from making calls.

Tragically, Lenny’s condition deteriorated to the point where he eventually succumbed to starvation. The couple then took the disturbing step of burying him on public land. However, their actions did not go unnoticed. A member of the public witnessed the burial and promptly reported the incident to the RSPCA. Inspector Charlotte Booker from the RSPCA, along with a police officer, responded to the scene and excavated the burial site, where they discovered Lenny’s emaciated body.

Inspector Booker described the scene as deeply distressing. She revealed that Lenny weighed only 10 kilograms at the time of discovery, which was half of his ideal weight. His feet were stained yellow from urine, indicating prolonged neglect. Despite having dog food in the house, Crawford and Horsfall admitted that they had not fed Lenny for four weeks prior to his death. They also confirmed that the dog had not left his cage during that period. In contrast, the couple’s other pets, including cats, bearded dragons, and tropical fish, were reportedly being fed and cared for properly.

Inspector Booker emphasized the cruelty of the case, stating, “Lenny starved to death right in front of them.” The two cats were surrendered to the RSPCA for rehoming, while the bearded dragons and tropical fish found new homes through the couple’s cooperation.

Following the investigation, Crawford and Horsfall were sentenced to 18 weeks in jail and received a lifelong ban from keeping animals. This case has left a lasting impression on those involved, highlighting the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect and cruelty in the community of Illingworth near Halifax.
← Back to search results