TINA SHORTELL'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY IN ORTON BRIMBLES AND WISBECH REVEALED

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Tina Shortell, born in May 1957 and currently residing in Orton Brimbles, Peterborough, has been found guilty of severe cruelty towards animals at a property in Guyhirn, near Wisbech. Shortell, who has longstanding links to Wisbech, King’s Lynn, and Bridlington, admitted to the authorities that she had neglected a total of 21 animals under her care, leading to a harrowing investigation and subsequent legal proceedings.

Earlier in 2024, police officers responded to a distress call from a local dog warden, who had received reports from residents about disturbing signs of animal suffering at Shortell’s property. The reports detailed dogs fighting and a persistent, foul smell emanating from the premises, prompting law enforcement to take immediate action. Upon forced entry, officers discovered a scene of utter neglect: 18 dogs and three cats living in deplorable conditions, with no access to food or clean water. The animals were found in a state of extreme filth, with coats matted and soaked with urine and feces, and suffering from malnutrition, dehydration, fleas, and ulcers.

Veterinary examinations confirmed the severity of the animals’ suffering. Three of the animals were found to be pregnant, adding further concern to the case. The veterinary reports painted a grim picture of neglect, highlighting the urgent need for intervention. The animals were seized and taken into care, with veterinary professionals providing necessary treatment and support.

In court, Tina Shortell pleaded guilty to charges of neglect and causing unnecessary suffering to animals. As part of her sentence, she was ordered to pay £6,000 in compensation to a pet rescue charity that played a crucial role in rescuing, caring for, and rehoming the animals. The charity, Ravenswood Pet Rescue, went above and beyond in their efforts, undertaking additional fundraising to cover the substantial costs associated with the case. They transported the animals to veterinary clinics outside of regular hours, provided ongoing care, and facilitated their rehoming process.

PC Kirsty Hulley, who led the investigation, expressed her shock and disappointment over the case. She stated, “This was a horrendous and shocking case of animal neglect and one I will never forget. Shortell caused unimaginable suffering to 21 helpless animals in her care, leaving them with no food or water and suffering in pain from untreated wounds and skin conditions.” She also praised the collaborative efforts of the authorities and rescue organizations, emphasizing their dedication to ensuring justice and animal welfare. “We worked closely with our partners at the council to bring this case to court, and I’d like to thank everyone involved for their hard work and dedication. A special thanks has to go to Ravenswood Pet Rescue, who undertook additional fundraising to cover the associated costs, transported all animals to the vets out of hours, and cared for and rehomed each of them,” Hulley added.

Councillor Susan Wallwork, representing Fenland District Council’s Environmental Health department, commented on the case, describing it as “an appalling example of animal cruelty.” She expressed gratitude to all those involved in the rescue efforts, acknowledging the tireless work of the Fenland Stray Dog Service, Ravenswood Pet Rescue, and their supporters. “Finding homes and funding care for such a large number of animals, many requiring round-the-clock attention, was an almost impossible task. Yet, the community and dedicated organizations made it happen,” she said. She also assured the public that the property, which had been left in a shocking state, was now being addressed to prevent further issues and to restore the area’s safety and cleanliness.

As for Tina Shortell, she received a sentence of 12 weeks in prison, suspended for one year, along with orders to pay costs and the £6,000 compensation. Additionally, she was handed a lifetime ban on keeping animals, a measure designed to prevent any future cruelty. The case underscores the seriousness with which authorities treat animal cruelty and highlights the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable animals from neglect and abuse in the region.