TRACY MIDDLETON'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY IN ASHFORD FARM LEADS TO JAIL SENTENCE

Tracy Jane Middleton, born in November 1968, residing at Little Oakhurst Brissenden Farm on Ashford Road in Bethersden, Ashford, has been sentenced to prison for her role in a severe case of animal neglect and cruelty. The conviction stems from her ownership and management of a 340-acre farm where she kept approximately 135 cows and 150 sheep, conditions on which she failed to maintain adequately.

Authorities uncovered a disturbing scene on Middleton’s farm, which had been under scrutiny since complaints from animal welfare groups. The farm was found to be in a deplorable state, with carcasses of sheep, lambs, and cattle left decomposing on her land. These carcasses included nine dead ewes and 15 dead lambs, which Middleton admitted to failing to properly dispose of. The farm’s conditions were so dire that it prompted a formal investigation by the RSPCA, following concerns raised by the Kent Animal Defenders in February 2019, despite prior warnings issued in 2018.

Prosecutor Andrew Price, representing Kent Trading Standards, detailed the findings from multiple inspections conducted between 2018 and 2019. The conditions of the farm were described as appalling: the cattle sheds lacked dry areas for the animals to rest, water troughs were nearly empty, and the ground was so muddy that the cows struggled to move. Many animals exhibited signs of neglect, including bald patches of skin, and one calf was found dead in the mud, while another was seen in the yard with bailing twine in its mouth, indicating neglect and potential danger.

During the court proceedings, Middleton’s legal representative, Gordon Crow, acknowledged the chaos and poor management of the farm, attributing the situation to Middleton being overwhelmed and experiencing a traumatic period in her life. He pleaded with District Judge Justin Barron to consider not imposing a jail sentence, emphasizing the potential harm to her family. However, Judge Barron responded firmly, stating that the severity of the suffering inflicted on the animals warranted a custodial sentence. He remarked, “No one could look at those pictures and say your animals didn’t experience a high level of suffering.”

Following the sentencing, it was noted that many of the remaining animals had been relocated or sold, and a local farmer had leased the farm to prevent further neglect. Middleton was sentenced to 120 days in jail, ordered to pay £8,500 in costs, and was banned from owning or keeping any animals for a period of ten years, with the exception of her pet cat and two dogs.

This case highlights the ongoing issues of animal cruelty and neglect in rural farming communities, and the legal repercussions faced by those found guilty of such offenses. The authorities continue to monitor and take action against cases of animal suffering, emphasizing the importance of animal welfare laws and enforcement.