DENHOLM BASS FROM POTTERS BAR AND ELSTREE WAY IN BOREHAMWOOD CONVICTED OF CRUELTY TO CATS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Denholm Bass, a resident of Potters Bar with ties to Barnet and Enfield, has been found guilty of inflicting severe cruelty upon a defenseless feline named Marley. The incident, which took place between June 1 and June 29, 2022, involved multiple brutal attacks on the three-year-old grey and white short-haired cat, causing catastrophic injuries that ultimately led to the animal's death.

According to court records, Bass, born around 2004 and residing at 26 Church Lane, Northaw, Potters Bar, subjected Marley to repeated acts of violence, including blunt force trauma. The injuries sustained by Marley were extensive and horrific, with the veterinarian’s examination revealing 15 fractured ribs and a broken leg. These injuries were consistent with being stamped on, as confirmed by an expert vet who reviewed the evidence. The severity of the fractures indicated that Marley had been repeatedly injured over a period of time, suffering immense pain and distress.

Despite the repeated injuries, Bass was surprisingly acquitted of causing unnecessary suffering to a second cat named Nala. Nala, who also suffered injuries including an old rib fracture and internal bleeding around her eyes, was found to have been harmed, but the court did not find sufficient evidence to link Bass directly to her injuries. Nala was subsequently surrendered to the RSPCA and has since been rehomed, offering her a chance at a better life away from her abuser.

Marley's suffering was documented over a span of three and a half weeks, during which he was taken to veterinary clinics on five separate occasions. On his final visit, the veterinarians placed him in an oxygen tent and administered pain relief injections. Despite these efforts, his condition worsened, and the compassionate vets had no choice but to euthanize him to prevent further suffering. The veterinarian’s report described the injuries as consistent with repeated trauma, and emphasized that Marley had endured pain, fear, and distress for at least ten days due to his fractured ribs, with additional soft tissue injuries causing suffering for at least three days.

RSPCA Inspector Nicole Broster expressed her outrage and sadness over the case, stating, “Poor Marley had suffered repeated instances of violent assaults and would have suffered immensely as a result of his injuries. This case highlights why it is never acceptable to physically abuse an animal.” The case has drawn attention to the importance of animal welfare and the need for strict enforcement of cruelty laws.

In mitigation, the court heard that Bass had been diagnosed with PTSD and was experiencing a difficult period during the time of the offenses. As part of his sentence, Bass received a 14-week prison sentence, which was suspended for 18 months. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 100 hours of unpaid work, pay costs of £1,500, and a victim surcharge of £154. Furthermore, Bass was handed a lifetime ban from owning animals, underscoring the seriousness of his crimes and the community’s commitment to preventing future cruelty.