STEPHEN AND HELEN CAMPBELL SENTENCED IN SUNDERLAND FOR ANIMAL NEGLECT AND MALICIOUS COMMUNICATIONS

In 2019, Stephen Campbell, born around 1983, and his wife Helen Campbell, born approximately in 1977, residents of North Ravensworth Street, Sunderland SR4 6BD, were convicted of neglecting two dogs and six cats.

RSPCA prosecutor Stewart Haywood explained that the couple’s animal welfare offences came to light following an inspection of their home earlier that year. During the inspection, an inspector observed a lurcher-type dog named Sweep, who was missing about half of his fur and suffering from a severe skin condition along with a flea infestation. The cats on the property were also found to be infested with fleas and were not kept in an appropriate environment.

It was also revealed in court that Helen Campbell, who was disabled and used a wheelchair, experienced mental health issues, and that her husband had difficulties managing the care of their children, the animals, and his wife.

Additionally, Stephen Campbell faced prosecution for sending malicious communications to a local councillor.

Regarding sentencing, Stephen Campbell received a 21-week prison sentence for both his animal welfare offences and the malicious communication charge. Helen Campbell was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison, suspended for one year, and was ordered to complete 20 days of rehabilitation activities. Both individuals were banned from keeping animals for five years, with this ban set to expire in December 2024.

Source: ChronicleLive