DEWSBURY MAN STEVEN HARTLEY LEAVES PETS TO STARVE IN HORRIFIC CASE

Steven Hartley, born on December 16, 1982, and residing at 61 Halifax Road, Staincliffe, Dewsbury WF13 4AZ, became the subject of a disturbing animal cruelty case after he abandoned his pets in a state of neglect that ultimately led to their deaths. The incident came to light when the RSPCA was called to his address on Calder Road, Dewsbury, on March 9, 2017, following an eviction attempt by the landlord.

Upon arrival, inspectors discovered the grim remains of Hartley's pet Rottweiler, Freya, in the basement kitchen. The scene was described as appalling, with the floor completely covered in feces, making it impossible to determine the actual surface beneath. The inspector, Gemma Fowler, recounted her struggle to open the basement door due to the overwhelming piles of waste behind it.

Inside, she found Freya in a deplorable state. The dog was emaciated, with her entire skeleton visible through her fur, and was covered in flies and other insects. Her claws were overgrown, indicating neglect over an extended period. The post-mortem examination revealed that Freya weighed only 10 kilograms, roughly a third of her ideal weight, and had likely suffered from weeks of malnutrition and dehydration before her death.

In addition to Freya, the remains of a snake named Eight Ball were found in an unheated tank in the living room. The snake's body was decomposed to the point that the cause of death could not be determined. The vet's report confirmed that both animals had been severely neglected, with the primary cause of death being a combination of starvation and lack of water.

During an interview, Hartley admitted ownership of both pets and took responsibility for their care. He claimed that the snake had died before he moved out of the property and that he had no means to take Freya with him as he was being evicted. Hartley's background was also discussed in court, revealing a difficult family upbringing and issues with alcohol at the time of the offences.

The court sentenced Hartley to a 16-week custodial sentence, suspended for one year, for the animal cruelty offences. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 15 days of rehabilitation activities, pay costs of £300, and was given a lifetime ban on keeping animals. This case highlights the severe consequences of neglect and the importance of animal welfare laws in Dewsbury and the wider Yorkshire area.