ANDREW FLEMING FROM DARLINGTON SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC ANIMAL NEGLECT IN BISHOP AUCKLAND

A resident of Darlington has been handed a severe punishment after his actions led to the tragic death of his dog, Jax, in conditions described as utterly deplorable. The incident unfolded in a property that was once located in Bishop Auckland, where authorities uncovered the heartbreaking state of the animal and the environment she was kept in.

According to court records, Andrew Paul Fleming, who was previously residing in Bishop Auckland but is now associated with Darlington, was sentenced to a decade-long ban on keeping any animals. This decision was made in light of the evidence presented against him, which detailed the neglect and suffering inflicted upon Jax. In addition to the ban, Fleming received a six-month jail sentence, which was suspended for a period of one year, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offenses within that timeframe.

The RSPCA officers involved in the case described the scene at Fleming’s residence as appalling. They discovered Jax’s lifeless body in the kitchen, amidst a scene that was described as 'horrendous.' The environment was infested with flies, with the dog’s remains surrounded by filth, including scattered rubbish and dog feces. The conditions of the house reflected a clear neglect of basic hygiene and animal welfare standards.

Veterinary examinations confirmed the severity of Jax’s suffering. The dog was found to be extremely emaciated, with her bones prominently visible across her body. The vet’s report indicated a body condition score of just one out of five, signifying extreme undernourishment. The findings pointed directly to neglect, as Fleming had failed to seek help or investigate her worsening condition despite her evident suffering.

Fleming pleaded guilty at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court to charges of causing unnecessary suffering to Jax and neglecting her fundamental needs, including proper food, water, and a suitable environment. The court proceedings also mandated Fleming to pay costs and a victim surcharge, complete 300 hours of unpaid community work, and participate in 10 days of Rehabilitation Activity to address his conduct.

Further details revealed that RSPCA officers had made contact with Fleming several weeks prior to the discovery. They attempted to access the property but were unable to do so. Instead, they observed through a window the skeletal remains of Jax, which underscored the extent of her neglect. The house itself was found to be in a filthy state, with clear evidence of abandonment and neglect, ultimately linking her death directly to the severe deprivation of her basic needs.