STEPHEN HOPKINSON FLEETWOOD ANIMAL CRUELTY CASE: DOGS LEFT TO SUFFER OUTSIDE SUPERMARKET

Stephen J Hopkinson, born on November 1, 1983, and residing at 19 Southwood Avenue, Fleetwood FY7 7ET, has been at the center of a disturbing case involving neglect and abandonment of his pet dogs. The incident came to light after two dogs, found tied outside a supermarket in Fleetwood, were rescued by a vigilant member of the public who noticed their distress and poor condition.

Hopkinson, who has a prior conviction for assaulting his infirm mother, faced serious allegations for failing to provide necessary medical care for his animals. His neglect was particularly egregious given that he was already subject to an indefinite ban on keeping dogs, a restriction imposed after his previous conviction. Despite this, he left his two dogs in a state of suffering, exposing them to the elements and leaving them unattended for nearly 24 hours.

The first dog, a male named Mylo, was suffering from a severe, untreated skin condition that had persisted for months. His skin was thickened, pink, flaky, and covered with scabs. He was also biting and scratching at his skin, indicating significant irritation and discomfort. Mylo's condition included bleeding on his legs, feet, stomach, chest, and genital area, along with noticeable fur loss and pinkness around his eyes and nose. The second dog, a female Chihuahua named Lily, was suffering from untreated dental disease, with loose teeth and foul-smelling breath.

According to reports, the dogs were discovered by a member of the public who found them tied outside the supermarket. Hopkinson later told RSPCA inspectors that he intended to return the following morning to retrieve the animals, which meant they had been left outside for nearly a full day in pain and distress. The rescue was a fortunate turn of events, as the dogs could have endured much worse if not found in time.

RSPCA Inspector Amy McIntosh was among the first to examine the dogs. She immediately observed that Mylo’s skin was thickened, pink, flaky, and covered with scabs. The dog was visibly irritated, biting and scratching at his skin. Lily, while in relatively better condition, had very foul breath, a sign of her dental issues. Both dogs were taken to a veterinarian for urgent assessment and treatment. The vet prescribed flea and skin treatments, along with medicated shampoo for Mylo, and recommended an urgent dental procedure for Lily to remove loose teeth caused by her dental disease.

Further investigation revealed that both dogs were microchipped, linking them directly to Hopkinson as their owner. The case proceeded to trial at Lancaster Magistrates Court, where Hopkinson was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering and neglecting their needs by leaving them unattended and untreated for an extended period. The court recognized the severity of the neglect, especially considering the dogs’ suffering over several months.

Following their rescue and treatment, both dogs showed significant improvement and are now in the care of the RSPCA. They are scheduled to be available for rehoming after the 21-day appeal period concludes. The court sentenced Hopkinson to a 16-week curfew, ordered him to pay £595 in costs and charges, and imposed an indefinite ban on him keeping dogs. However, he has the right to appeal this ban after five years.

In an update dated March 31, 2022, Lancs Live reported that Hopkinson’s appeal against his convictions was unsuccessful, resulting in a four-week jail sentence. His indefinite ban on keeping dogs was reduced to a five-year ban, which he cannot appeal for at least 12 months. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £500 in costs, and a deprivation order was issued for both dogs, allowing the RSPCA to find them new, loving homes. Hopkinson also faced a £96 victim surcharge as part of his sentencing. This case highlights the importance of animal welfare laws and the ongoing efforts of authorities to protect vulnerable animals from neglect and cruelty in Fleetwood and beyond.