CHARLOTTE GOWER FROM BLYTH CONVICTED OF ANIMAL CRUELTY IN NORTHUMBERLAND AND DURHAM

Charlotte Gower, also known by her maiden name Charlotte Orr, was born on September 1, 1991, and resides on Hambledon Street in Blyth, Northumberland. Her criminal activities, however, extend beyond her immediate residence, as she has connections to Ashington, Newton Aycliffe, and Darlington. Gower has been found guilty of severe animal neglect and cruelty, charges that highlight her ongoing disregard for the welfare of living creatures.

Her case came to light after authorities uncovered her abandonment of multiple domestic rats and fish in her property, which was left in a state of neglect and disrepair. The animals were found to have been left to starve, suffering immensely due to her failure to provide basic necessities. Gower’s history of alcohol abuse and violent behavior has been well documented, and her past actions have led to her being banned for life from keeping any animals. This ban was imposed after she previously failed to meet the needs of 11 pet rats, some of whom tragically died from starvation, underscoring her repeated failure to care for her animals.

The case further revealed a pattern of persistent animal abuse, including violations of a court order that had previously banned her from keeping animals for ten years, starting in 2014. An inspection conducted by the RSPCA, led by inspector Heidi Cleaver, uncovered the disturbing conditions at her property in Newton Aycliffe. The inspector described the scene as immediately overwhelming, stating, “The stench of death hit us as soon as the door was opened. The electricity was off, so we had to use the torches on our mobile phones for light. There were flies all over the walls.”

During the inspection, the RSPCA officers seized the rats and fish, which were found in a state of severe neglect. The animals were transferred into the care of the RSPCA and taken to a veterinarian for assessment. The veterinarian explained that the rats had likely died from starvation, and those that fed on the carcasses may have contracted bacterial infections, leading to further suffering and complications.

Further investigations revealed that Gower had also kept live rats at her new address, where she had again failed to provide adequate food and water, resulting in unnecessary pain and suffering for the animals. Her legal team attempted to defend her actions by citing mental health issues, a history of past abuse, and struggles with alcohol addiction. However, the court emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership and the duty of care owed to animals.

In sentencing, the court ordered Gower to serve an 18-month community order. This included 25 days of rehabilitation programs and 100 hours of unpaid community service. Additionally, she was ordered to pay costs amounting to £500 and a victim surcharge of £114. The court also imposed a lifetime ban on her from keeping any animals, ensuring she cannot repeat her neglectful behavior in the future.