DEAN SINGLETON-BAGLEY AND NATALIE GRAHAM FROM CLEATOR MOOR SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOGS

In a disturbing case of animal cruelty, Dean Singleton-Bagley, born on 19 August 1991, of Greystone Place, and Natalie Graham, born on 17 August 1993, of William Morris Avenue, both residents of Cleator Moor, faced justice for their neglectful treatment of two dogs. The pair were convicted in 2022 of causing unnecessary suffering to protected animals, a charge that highlights the severity of their actions.

According to the prosecution, George Shelley, police officers responded to a call on January 7, 2022, which led them to Singleton-Bagley's residence. During their visit, officers discovered two dogs hidden beneath the staircase in a small, filthy cupboard. The conditions inside the enclosure were appalling; the space was filled with dog feces and urine, and the animals had no access to food or water. The stench and unsanitary environment were so overwhelming that the police dog handlers present were visibly affected, with reports indicating their eyes were watering due to the foul smell.

The dogs appeared severely malnourished and were in a state of neglect that had persisted for approximately two months. The police promptly arrested Singleton-Bagley and Graham, and the animals were seized for veterinary assessment. A veterinary surgeon's report confirmed that both dogs were underweight and had suffered from their conditions for an extended period, underscoring the neglect they endured.

During the court proceedings, John Cooper, representing Singleton-Bagley, acknowledged that his client was aware of the situation and admitted that he had failed to provide proper care. Cooper also pointed out that Singleton-Bagley divided his time between two addresses and recognized that he had let things deteriorate, primarily due to his absence and inability to oversee the animals properly. On the other hand, Natalie Graham, who appeared in court without legal representation, expressed remorse and stated that she would not keep any more dogs. She explained that her children were her main concern and that the neglect was unintentional. Graham also revealed that she had agreed to sign over the dogs, believing they deserved better care, and admitted feeling too scared to ask for help earlier.

In sentencing, the court imposed a 12-month community order on both defendants, including a requirement to participate in 20 days of rehabilitation activities. Graham was fined £80, while Singleton-Bagley received a fine of £140. Additionally, both were ordered to pay £85 in court costs and a £34 victim surcharge. The court also banned both individuals from owning or keeping dogs for a period of ten years, aiming to prevent any future incidents of animal neglect or cruelty in Cleator Moor.