STEPHEN DIXON'S CRUELTY IN MIDDLESBROUGH: DOG STARVATION AND ABUSE REVEALED

In a deeply troubling case that has shocked the community of Middlesbrough, Stephen Dixon, a resident of Meath Street, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to his dog, Meeka, a Staffordshire Bull terrier. The incident, which took place between October 29 and November 26, 2017, involved Dixon neglecting and mistreating his pet, leading to severe physical deterioration.

According to court reports, Dixon, who has struggled with alcohol addiction, allowed Meeka to become dangerously emaciated and covered in sores. The RSPCA, alerted by a complaint about the dog's neglect, visited Dixon’s home to investigate the conditions in which the animal was kept. They discovered a small yard filled with faeces and a broken door topped with broken glass, creating a hazardous environment for the dog.

Meeka was found in a state of extreme malnutrition, with visible sores on all four legs. During questioning, Dixon admitted to punishing the dog by withholding food. When asked about her thin condition, he acknowledged his alcoholism and his awareness of her emaciation. The RSPCA inspector, John Ellwood, described the case as “worrying,” emphasizing the severity of the neglect.

He further explained that on several occasions, Meeka had been left outside for at least two days at a time, enduring harsh conditions. The dog’s hunger was evident; she ate ravenously when fed, licking the bowl clean within seconds and showing signs of extreme thirst. The neglect had taken a toll on her health, but she has since been rescued, nursed back to health, and rehomed to a caring family.

During the court proceedings, Dixon’s legal representative expressed remorse, stating that he was “extremely ashamed of himself” and that he was undergoing treatment for his alcohol addiction. The chair of the bench, Carole Freeman-Dunn, described the case as “very disturbing.”

As part of the sentencing, Dixon received a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, along with a fine of £415 to cover costs. He was also ordered to complete 15 days of rehabilitation activities and was banned from keeping any animals for a period of 10 years, reflecting the seriousness of his actions and the community’s concern for animal welfare.