RUGBY COUPLE TINA COLES AND MARTIN HESSEY SENTENCED FOR NEGLECTING PET CAT IN RUGBY

In a distressing case that has shocked the community of Rugby, Tina Elizabeth Coles, also known as Tina Boneham, born on January 2, 1998, and her partner Martin Hessey, born circa 1980, faced justice for their neglect of a beloved pet cat. Both individuals, residing at Carolyn Lane Court, Blackman Way, Rugby CV21 2US, appeared before Birmingham Magistrates’ Court to answer charges related to the suffering and subsequent death of their three-year-old cat, Tigger.

The court was informed that Tigger had developed a stomach ulcer, a condition that, if treated promptly, could have been managed effectively. However, the couple failed to seek veterinary assistance for their feline companion, allowing the ulcer to worsen over time. The neglect culminated in the ulcer perforating, which ultimately led to Tigger’s death weeks later. The tragic outcome was brought to public attention when a concerned member of the community reported the cat’s death to the RSPCA.

Inspector Helen Smith was dispatched to investigate the case on June 1, 2019. Her findings were disturbing: she discovered Tigger’s emaciated body stored inside a freezer at the couple’s flat. The cat’s weight was recorded at a mere 1.47 kilograms, a stark contrast to the typical weight range of 4 to 4.5 kilograms for a cat of Tigger’s age. The inspector noted that the state of Tigger’s body was a clear indication of prolonged suffering and neglect.

Inspector Smith commented on the case, stating, “It would have been blatantly obvious that Tigger was in need of veterinary treatment but the couple failed to act. The stomach ulcer would have led to an obvious lack of appetite which is why Tigger was so emaciated. The vet said he would have suffered for at least a month and his death would have been slow and painful. This case really highlights how imperative it is for owners to take their pets for veterinary treatment if they show symptoms of illness. Poor Tigger was left to suffer unnecessarily.”

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that both Coles and Hessey were suffering from mental health issues, a factor that the magistrates considered when determining their sentence. The court imposed a fine of £120 on each of them and ordered them to pay a victim surcharge of £30. Additionally, both individuals were banned from keeping any animals for a period of seven years, a ban that will expire in October 2026.

The case has served as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the devastating consequences of neglect. The community of Rugby continues to mourn the loss of Tigger, whose tragic death underscores the critical need for vigilance and compassion towards animals.