CATHERINE ALLSAGER AND MALCOLM OGDEN SHOCKING ANIMAL CRUELTY IN ACCRINGTON

In a disturbing case of animal neglect and cruelty, Catherine Allsager, also known by the alias Louise Sagar and Kitty Lou, along with Malcolm Ogden, aged 58, have been found guilty of subjecting numerous cats and dogs to horrific living conditions in their homes located in Accrington.

Authorities, including the RSPCA and local police, launched a raid on the residences of both individuals following the circulation of a distressing image depicting a dead dog at Ogden’s property. The image prompted immediate concern and action from animal welfare officials.

During the raid at Ogden’s house on Frederick Street, officers encountered a scene described as 'disgusting' by court officials. The property was filled with an overpowering stench of ammonia, with floors covered in a thick layer of faeces and urine. The investigation revealed a trail of excrement stretching from the front door all the way to Ogden’s car, illustrating the neglect that had taken place.

Inside the residence, four dogs were discovered in a deplorable state, with some left in crates and others roaming freely in the kitchen. One of the dogs was seen drinking urine off the floor, highlighting the severe lack of basic care. The environment was further contaminated by numerous fly-strips laden with dead flies, emphasizing the unsanitary conditions.

The court heard that the living conditions for the animals were appalling, with cat litter trays filled with faeces that had turned white from neglect, and dog faeces piled inches high on the floors. The animals had no access to water, and the bathroom was described as being 'covered in faeces' and emitting a horrendous smell. Several animals exhibited signs of injury and illness, including puncture wounds and swelling, with one cat suffering from joint pain severe enough to cause screaming in pain.

Further investigations by the RSPCA revealed that five deceased cats had been taken for cremation by Allsager, who was later identified as the owner of the animals. The Manchester Dog’s Home staff alerted authorities after noticing the smell of urine on the cats and lesions on their paws, legs, and bellies. One of Allsager’s cats had to be taken to a veterinary clinic for treatment due to its suffering.

On October 19, 2016, authorities executed a warrant at Allsager’s residence on Elizabeth Street. They found the home in a similarly deplorable state, with urine and faeces on the floors and a strong ammonia smell permeating the air. Inside, ten cats and six dogs were discovered, with two dogs confined in crates and four others loose in the kitchen. One of the dogs was seen drinking urine from the floor, and the scene was further marred by the presence of dead flies on fly-strips.

Animals showed signs of injury, including puncture wounds and swelling, indicating neglect and suffering. When questioned, Ogden admitted that the dead dog in the photograph was his and claimed that two of the four dogs living with him belonged to Allsager. He also stated that he was living in the same filthy conditions and was attempting to clean the house.

Both individuals faced charges related to animal cruelty. Ogden pleaded guilty to two counts of failing to meet the needs of animals, while Allsager admitted to five counts of neglect and two counts of causing unnecessary suffering. The court handed down sentences that reflected the severity of their actions: Allsager received a six-week suspended prison sentence, 35 days of rehabilitation activities, and a lifetime ban on keeping animals. Ogden was sentenced to a 10-month community order, fined £100 plus costs of £385, and banned from keeping dogs or cats for five years, although this ban expired in June 2022.

This case highlights the ongoing issues of animal cruelty in Accrington and underscores the importance of vigilant enforcement and public awareness to prevent such suffering in the future.