CANNOCK PET ABUSERS CRAIG BENTON AND LEIGH-ANN ROWE SENTENCED FOR STARVING DOGS AND CATS

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Craig Benton, born on October 7, 1985, and Leigh-Ann Rowe, born on October 11, 1988, both residents of Jesmond Close in Cannock, have been found guilty of neglecting and starving two dogs and two cats under their care. The case came to light after the RSPCA received a report indicating that the pets at the couple’s residence were suffering from severe neglect.

Inspector Nicola Johnson was dispatched to investigate the allegations at the property, which is located in the town of Cannock. Upon arrival, she discovered a dog of Inuit-type breed named Maya, who was in a critically emaciated state, described as a “walking skeleton” by the inspector. The condition of Maya was so dire that she was at least 70 percent underweight, a clear sign of prolonged starvation.

In addition to Maya, a Labrador named Charlie was also found on the premises. Unlike Maya, Charlie appeared to be in good physical condition, suggesting he had access to food. However, the overall environment of the home was deemed unsuitable for any pets, raising concerns about the living conditions in which the animals were kept.

Two cats, Mischa and Beauty, were also discovered to be severely underweight and suffering from an untreated flea infestation. The neglect was evident, and the animals’ health was in a critical state. Inspector Johnson commented on the severity of the situation, stating, “Maya appeared to be a walking skeleton with fur on, and it was fortunate she was found when she was, given her extreme thinness.”

She further explained that both cats, after being taken into the care of the RSPCA, gained approximately 1.5 kilograms each to reach a healthier weight. The inspector expressed her frustration over the couple’s apparent neglect, saying, “What I find so frustrating about this case is that there was plenty of pet food in the house. It simply seems they were too lazy to feed the animals, leaving them to deteriorate to this state.”

Despite the presence of food in the household, it appears that the couple’s neglect was due to their lack of effort rather than a shortage of supplies. Inspector Johnson noted that Charlie, the Labrador, was likely eating the food left out for the other animals, as he was in good condition, which suggests he was fed regularly. She emphasized, “There is never an excuse not to feed pets—especially when food is available in the home, and the extent of their weight loss would be obvious to anyone.”

All the animals involved have since recovered from their ordeal and have been re-homed by the RSPCA, ensuring they are now in safe and caring environments. During court proceedings, the couple’s defense claimed they were unaware that Charlie was eating the food intended for the other pets, as they fed all the animals in the same room without supervision.

In sentencing, Craig Benton was fined £500 along with a £30 victim surcharge. Leigh-Ann Rowe received a fine of £120 plus a £30 victim surcharge. Both were ordered to pay £250 in court costs. Additionally, they were banned from keeping cats and dogs for a period of five years, with the ban set to expire in March 2024. The case highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and the consequences of neglecting animals entrusted to one’s care.