DAVINA WALLACE FROM WOODHURST CONVICTED FOR STARVING PUPPY TO DEATH IN HUNTINGDON

Davina Karla Wallace, born on July 21, 1994, and most recently residing on St Ives Road in Woodhurst, Huntingdon PE28, has been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a young puppy named Ruby. Originally from Wembley in North West London, Wallace’s case has drawn significant attention due to the tragic circumstances surrounding the animal’s death.

Wallace, who also pursued a career as a failed R&B singer under the stage names Cartaé and Cartae, admitted to the charges related to neglect and cruelty. The incident came to light after concerns were raised about the welfare of the puppy, prompting an investigation by the RSPCA. An inspector from the organization visited Wallace’s residence but was unable to make contact initially, as she failed to answer the door. A calling card was left, and subsequent communication took place on November 19, 2023.

During this conversation, Wallace claimed that her dog was unwell, that she was overwhelmed and unable to care for her, and expressed her desire to surrender the animal. Animal Rescue Officer Jack Curran recounted in his witness statement that Wallace told him she had not yet checked on Ruby but described her as very unwell and not moving. She also stated she was unsure if the dog was still alive and that she could not get her to a veterinarian.

When Officer Curran arrived at the caravan in Woodhurst, he discovered the heartbreaking reality. The puppy was found dead inside a crate located in the lounge/kitchen area. The scene was distressing: the crate was devoid of food and water, and a dirty blanket covered the puppy. There was a significant accumulation of feces both inside and outside the crate. The puppy, a small black and tan dog roughly the size of a cat, was in a severely emaciated state, with ribs, spine, and hip bones prominently visible. Discharge was evident around her eyes, indicating poor health.

Wallace identified the dog as Ruby but was unable to provide details about her age or breed. She claimed that a friend had given her the dog four weeks prior. Recognizing the severity of the situation, Officer Curran took Ruby to a veterinarian for examination. The vets confirmed that Ruby had died within the last 24 hours. Further assessment revealed that she was approximately three to four months old and was in a state of extreme starvation, with a body condition score of just one out of nine, indicating critical emaciation.

The post-mortem examination uncovered severe emaciation consistent with prolonged starvation, along with mild pneumonia and enteritis, which may have contributed to her weakened condition. The veterinarian’s report painted a grim picture of neglect and suffering.

In mitigation, the court heard that Wallace had been struggling with mental health issues at the time of the incident. She was supported by a social worker and was not taking her medication properly, which affected her ability to care for herself and her dog. Since the incident, Wallace has resumed her medication and is now receiving support in sheltered accommodation.

As part of her sentencing, Wallace received an 18-month community order with 20 days of rehabilitation activity requirements. She was also fined £120 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £114. Additionally, she was disqualified from keeping all animals for life, although she has the right to appeal this decision after three years. The case has served as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the devastating consequences of neglect.