DARREN HAYWOOD FROM BELL GREEN COVENTRY SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY AND NEGLECT

Darren Haywood, born around 1982 and residing on Chaloner Close in Bell Green, Coventry, was found guilty in his absence of multiple offences related to animal welfare. The charges included causing unnecessary suffering to his pets, specifically two Staffordshire Bull Terriers named Tyson and Missy. The case drew attention after a concerned member of the public reported the condition of the dogs to the RSPCA, prompting an investigation that revealed disturbing neglect.

On March 4, 2019, Inspector Helen Smith from the RSPCA visited Haywood’s address in Bell Green to assess the situation. She observed that both dogs were severely underweight and suffering from untreated skin conditions, which had resulted in significant fur loss. The dogs emitted a strong smell indicative of infection, further highlighting their poor health. Recognizing the severity of their condition, Inspector Smith was granted permission to take the animals for veterinary treatment.

Veterinary examination confirmed the inspector’s concerns. Tyson, who was eight years old, weighed only 14.5 kilograms, whereas a healthy weight for a dog of his breed and age would typically be between 18 and 20 kilograms. His bones were visibly protruding, and he was constantly scratching due to a severe skin infection that had caused fur loss. Missy, also eight years old, weighed 15.2 kilograms and exhibited similar symptoms, including persistent scratching and skin issues. Both dogs had suffered unnecessarily due to neglect, but they have since been placed in the care of the RSPCA and are expected to be available for re-homing soon.

Inspector Helen Smith emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership, stating, “It was clear from the smell of the dogs and their appearance that both had a severe infection and they were constantly scratching. They were also clearly underweight as many of their bones were protruding. There is never an excuse not to feed your pets or to leave them suffering when they should be taken immediately to a vet. Many vets will offer a payment plan to help spread the cost and there are charities who can help with vet bills.”

Despite the evidence and the severity of the case, Haywood failed to appear at a previous hearing and was subsequently sentenced in his absence. He was later arrested but did not attend the sentencing hearing following his arrest. A warrant was issued for his arrest, and he was eventually brought before the court for sentencing. During the proceedings, the court acknowledged Haywood’s financial hardship as a mitigating factor.

As part of his sentence, Haywood received a 12-month community order, which includes a four-month curfew. Additionally, he was ordered to complete a 15-day Rehabilitation Activity Requirement and pay an £85 victim surcharge. The court also imposed a five-year ban on keeping animals, which will expire in October 2024. This case highlights the ongoing issues of animal neglect and the importance of vigilance and intervention by authorities and the public alike in safeguarding animal welfare in Coventry and beyond.