AMY YOULL FROM WYTHENSHAWE CONVICTED OVER HORRIFIC ANIMAL NEGLECT IN LANCASHIRE

Amy Elizabeth Youll, born on February 17, 1992, and residing on Shadowmoss Road in Wythenshawe, Manchester, has been found guilty of severe animal neglect and cruelty. Her conviction stems from a series of disturbing discoveries made at her residence in Lancashire, where she kept multiple pets in deplorable conditions, leading to the suffering and death of several animals.

On September 18, 2021, RSPCA inspectors visited Youll’s property on Todmorden Road, Bacup, Lancashire, after receiving reports of animal welfare concerns. The house was in a state of extreme filth, with rubbish, faeces, and debris scattered throughout every room. The inspectors reported that the stench of urine and rotting waste was so overwhelming that they had to wear face masks to protect themselves from the overpowering smell. The interior was so cluttered and filled with waste that walking through the house was nearly impossible, and many rooms were completely inaccessible due to the accumulation of junk.

Inside, the inspectors found a total of nine animals: eight dogs and one cat. The animals were in a dire state—matted fur, severe underweight conditions, and signs of neglect. The dogs, which included a mixture of terriers and crossbreeds, were visibly emaciated, with their ribs, hips, and spines protruding. They emitted a strong smell of urine and faeces, which was matted into their fur, paws, and overgrown claws. The black and white cat, named Mortimer, was also infested with fleas. Many of the animals were so frightened that they had to be carried out to waiting vehicles by the inspectors.

Veterinary examinations confirmed the severity of their condition. Six of the dogs received a body condition score of just 1 or 1.5 out of 5, indicating extreme starvation. The vet concluded that, in the absence of any medical issues, the animals had been starved and neglected for a prolonged period, likely at least three days or more. The animals showed signs of distress caused by the ammonia fumes from the faeces and contaminated surfaces, which would have caused significant discomfort and suffering.

Further investigation revealed that the animals had been deprived of proper nutrition and care. The inspectors found no fresh water available for the animals, and the environment was so contaminated that it posed a health risk. The conditions were so severe that the animals’ suffering was undeniable, and the neglect was deemed inexcusable.

Following the rescue, all nine animals were taken to the RSPCA’s Southport, Ormskirk, and District branch. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of staff and volunteers, they received medical treatment and rehabilitation, eventually making a full recovery. The animals were then rehomed from the centre in Southport, where they now enjoy safe and loving homes.

However, the case did not end there. On September 30, 2021, private contractors hired to clean the property discovered the remains of five small to medium-sized dogs in the backyard. These bodies had been placed in carrier bags, boxes, and planters, and were heavily infested with maggots. The decomposing remains included skulls, jaws, and teeth, but due to advanced decomposition, it was impossible to determine the exact cause of death. Severed parts of numerous cats were also found inside the property.

Inspector Alison Fletcher, who examined the scene, described it as one of the most distressing sights she had encountered in her 20 years with the RSPCA. She stated, “The scene was highly distressing to view and I would have to say one of the worst things I have visited within my 20 years of working with the RSPCA. The smell in the area was extremely strong and could be tasted on the throat. I instantly recognised the smell of decaying carcasses. Each of the bodies was found contained within a bag, box, or planter, piled under rubbish and debris.”

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Youll had a history of mental health issues and struggled to care for herself, which contributed to her neglect of the animals. The investigation was led by RSPCA Chief Inspector Nina Small, who described the conditions as some of the worst she had seen in her career. She emphasized that the suffering and neglect inflicted upon the animals were inexcusable and that many would have died if they had not been rescued in time.

Thanks to the efforts of the RSPCA staff, all the animals recovered and were rehomed. The case resulted in Youll being sentenced to a 12-week suspended prison term and an indefinite ban on keeping all animals. She was also prohibited from owning or caring for any animals indefinitely. This sentence was handed down in her absence during a trial in October 2022, after she denied three animal welfare offences. The court also noted her previous offending history.

In a related case, another individual pleaded guilty to two animal welfare offences in November 2022 and received an eight-year ban from keeping animals, along with a 12-week custodial sentence suspended for 24 months and 25 rehabilitation activity days. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of authorities to combat animal cruelty and ensure offenders are held accountable for their actions.