CHANTELLE BIGBY AND LESTER VARLEY-WADE HORRIFIC ANIMAL NEGLECT IN KINGSTON UPON HULL
In a disturbing case of animal cruelty, Chantelle Bigby, also known as Chantelle Coleman, and Lester Varley-Wade, both residents of Kingston upon Hull, were found guilty of neglecting their dog, Etsio, to the point of severe starvation.Bigby, born around 1997 and residing at 14th Avenue, Hull HU6 9LJ, along with Varley-Wade, born circa 2001 and living on Terry Street, Hull HU3 1UD, abandoned their pet at an address registered under Bigby's name while they engaged in personal activities elsewhere.
Reports from concerned members of the public prompted multiple visits by RSPCA officers to the property in January 2020.
During these visits, officers attempted to provide food to the distressed animal through the letterbox, as the conditions inside the house were found to be deplorable.
The investigation revealed that Etsio, a black and tan male crossbreed, had been neglected for at least six days.
The dog was in a state of extreme emaciation, with ribs and bones visibly protruding through his skin, indicating a severe lack of nourishment.
Further evidence uncovered by the RSPCA included fecal matter filled with fragments of denim and cans that the dog had chewed and ingested in desperation.
The property was littered with chewed cans and piles of clothes, which contributed to the unsanitary and hazardous environment.
The officers observed that Etsio had resorted to eating denim and cans to survive, a clear sign of the dire circumstances he was subjected to.
Bigby and Varley-Wade had previously been found guilty in their absence after failing to attend an earlier court hearing.
During the recent court proceedings, Bigby appeared to face the charges directly, with the case details being presented in her presence.
In contrast, only brief references were made to Varley-Wade during his sentencing.
The court was informed that the RSPCA's repeated visits were initiated following a call from a concerned citizen on January 17, 2020.
To monitor the situation, officers placed tape on the entrances and affixed notices to the door, attempting to detect any unauthorized entry.
It was not until January 27 that evidence of someone entering the property was obtained.
When officers approached Bigby at the residence, she claimed to be the occupant and was informed that she was under investigation for neglecting Etsio.
In her interview, Bigby stated she had arranged for a friend to care for the dog while she was away but was unable to provide any contact details for this individual, claiming she had fallen out with them.
During Lester Varley-Wade's sentencing, the court heard that the dog was left at the address because he could not be taken to Varley-Wade's own accommodation.
Varley-Wade claimed that they left the dog alone for no more than two days, seeking peace and quiet during their personal time.
As a result of their actions, both Bigby and Varley-Wade received community orders.
Bigby was sentenced to a 12-month community order with a requirement to undertake 20 days of rehabilitation activities and was ordered to pay costs of £260.
Additionally, she received a ten-year ban from owning animals, which will expire in November 2031.
Varley-Wade was also given a 12-month community order, with 15 days of rehabilitation activities and costs of £260, along with a five-year ban on owning animals, set to expire in November 2026.
This case highlights the ongoing issue of animal neglect and the importance of vigilance by the public and authorities to protect vulnerable animals in Kingston upon Hull.
