DARREN, CALLAN WHEATCROFT & SIMON WHITWORTH CAUGHT IN ACCRINGTON AND OSWALDTWISTLE DOG-FIGHTING RING

In a significant crackdown on illegal animal cruelty, authorities uncovered a disturbing dog-fighting operation involving Darren Wheatcroft, his son Callan Wheatcroft, and their associate Simon Whitworth, in the towns of Accrington and Oswaldtwistle. The investigation culminated in warrants executed by the RSPCA and police at locations on Haywood Road in Accrington and Ramsclough Farm on Haslingden Old Road in Oswaldtwistle during May 2014.

During the raids, officers discovered a horrifying scene: five banned pitbull-type dogs, which are known for their aggressive nature and are prohibited by law, were seized from the premises. The authorities also uncovered a collection of literature—books and magazines—related to dog-fighting and the treatment of fighting dogs, alongside veterinary equipment used for tending to injuries sustained during fights. Treadmills, ceiling hooks, and weighing scales, all indicative of organized dog-fighting activities, were also found at the scene.

Particularly distressing were the findings at Ramsclough Farm, where two banned dogs named Dingo and Sheeba were kept in kennels behind the farmhouses. Sheeba was found to have injuries on her left front leg, suggesting recent or ongoing abuse. The evidence extended beyond physical findings; investigators recovered text messages and WhatsApp communications from Darren Wheatcroft’s phone, which explicitly discussed plans to organize dog fights. One such message from Darren’s son, Callan, asked, “so does he still have that killer 37/38 dog? Would you go for a grand with Dingo?” to which Darren responded, “Zulu hooked up,” indicating active involvement in illegal fighting.

All three men faced serious charges. Darren Wheatcroft admitted to arranging dog fights, keeping or training dogs for fighting, and possessing three banned pitbull-type dogs. His son, Callan Wheatcroft, pleaded guilty to similar charges, including keeping or training dogs for fighting and possessing three prohibited dogs. Simon Whitworth, a company director and father of two, also pleaded guilty to neglecting animal welfare, training or keeping dogs for fighting, and possessing two banned pitbull terrier-type dogs.

During the court proceedings at Burnley Magistrates Court, defense lawyer Simon Farnsworth from FMB Solicitors in Blackburn argued that despite the substantial evidence, there was no concrete proof that dog-fights had actually taken place. However, District Judge James Clarke was unequivocal in his assessment, stating that he was “quite satisfied” that the banned dogs and fighting equipment found were being used for illegal dog-fighting activities.

Judge Clarke emphasized the severity of the crimes, highlighting that the ownership, training, and care of these dangerous animals were deliberate acts that perpetuated cruelty and violence. He explained that such breeds are inherently dangerous due to their physical characteristics and training, capable of inflicting severe injuries or death. The judge condemned the defendants for their involvement in an industry rooted in animal cruelty, driven by financial gain and entertainment at the expense of the animals’ well-being.

Sentencing reflected the gravity of their offenses. Callan Wheatcroft and Simon Whitworth received suspended 16-week jail sentences, while Darren Wheatcroft was sentenced to a 20-week suspended term. All three men were ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid community service. Additionally, Darren Wheatcroft and Simon Whitworth were each required to pay £15,000 in RSPCA costs, with Callan Wheatcroft ordered to pay £10,000. As part of their penalties, all three were banned from owning or keeping dogs for life, a measure aimed at preventing future cruelty.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts by authorities to combat illegal dog-fighting and animal cruelty in Lancashire, sending a clear message that such activities will be met with strict legal consequences.