ANTHONY BITTLESTONE FROM HOUGHTON-LE-SPRING SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY IN SUNDERLAND

Anthony Bittlestone, a resident of Lilywhite Terrace in Easington Lane, Houghton-le-Spring, Sunderland, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to his dog, Jack Russell Riley, and failing to ensure the animal’s proper welfare. The case drew significant attention due to the shocking condition in which the dog was discovered and the subsequent legal proceedings.

Jack Russell Riley was described as being in a severely emaciated state when found, weighing only 3 kilograms—less than half of what is typical for his breed. The dog’s condition was so dire that his ribs, hips, and spine were clearly visible, indicating extreme malnutrition. His nails were overgrown, and he was shedding fur excessively, further evidence of neglect. The environment in which Riley was kept was equally disturbing; the kitchen floor was littered with faeces, and the smell was described as revolting, highlighting the unsanitary and neglectful conditions Riley endured.

Initial inspections by RSPCA inspectors took place on September 30, 2019. However, Bittlestone refused entry at that time. Despite this, the inspector observed Riley and noted his poor physical condition. The inspector provided advice to Bittlestone on how to improve the dog’s health, but subsequent visits in October 2019 went unanswered. After repeated attempts to contact him, the RSPCA gained access to the property and found Riley in a shocking state of neglect.

RSPCA prosecutor Stewart Haywood described Riley’s condition as “extremely thin and very lethargic.” He further explained that the dog was taken to a veterinarian for examination and blood tests. The results confirmed that Riley had been starved, with a body weight of just 3.09kg, whereas a healthy dog of his breed should weigh approximately 7kg. The veterinarian also noted fur shedding and overgrown nails, consistent with neglect. Blood tests showed no internal damage or medical conditions, indicating that the suffering was primarily due to starvation rather than any underlying illness.

During the court proceedings, Jason Smith, representing Bittlestone, explained that the defendant was experiencing a difficult period in his life. Bittlestone, who worked as a milkman, was dealing with personal hardships, including his partner leaving him and his father being diagnosed with a terminal illness. These circumstances reportedly overwhelmed him, making it challenging to care for his dog, his parents, and manage his work commitments.

Smith emphasized that although Riley was underweight, there was no evidence of long-term damage or internal injuries. He argued that Bittlestone was feeding Riley, but the dog was not receiving adequate nutritional value from the food provided. The defense suggested that the neglect was not intentional but a result of the defendant’s difficult personal situation.

In sentencing, the court imposed an 18-month community order, which includes 25 days of rehabilitation activities and 150 hours of unpaid work. Bittlestone was also ordered to pay £490 in costs and was banned from keeping animals for a period of 10 years. The case underscores the importance of animal welfare and the legal consequences of neglecting pets, even during times of personal hardship.