ELOISE HUTCHINSON FROM NEWTON AYCLIFFE BANNED FOR 10 YEARS AFTER DOGS FOUND DEAD IN DORSET

Eloise Hutchinson, a single mother of four originally from Newton Aycliffe, has been convicted of severe animal neglect following a tragic incident involving two dogs found dead in Dorset. Born on July 3, 1994, Hutchinson was previously residing at Ida Place in Newton Aycliffe but had moved to Blandford Forum, Dorset, by 2021.

Her case came to light after her former landlady contacted the RSPCA, raising concerns about the welfare of two dogs that had been left behind. The dogs, identified as Blake and Brodie, were saluki-type canines approximately eight months old at the time of their death. When authorities arrived, they discovered the animals in a cage, in a state of advanced decomposition, with no signs of food or water. Despite the presence of dog food and bowls filled with rotting remnants in the kitchen, the dogs had been left to suffer and ultimately perish.

Hutchinson admitted to revisiting the property about a week after abandoning the dogs. During this visit, she reported hearing them barking but claimed she was too frightened to look inside the cage. Her failure to act or seek help contributed to the prolonged suffering of the animals.

Inspector Claire Wilson, who handled the case, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome. She described the situation as the most distressing she had ever encountered, emphasizing the prolonged suffering endured by the dogs. Wilson praised the magistrates for recognizing the severity of the neglect and for imposing a substantial penalty.

Hutchinson appeared at Darlington Magistrates’ Court, where she pleaded guilty to animal neglect charges. The court sentenced her to a 12-week prison term, suspended for 12 months, and ordered her to complete 120 hours of unpaid community service. Additionally, she was fined £480 in total for various charges. Importantly, the court banned her from keeping any animals for a period of ten years, a ban that will expire in July 2024. She has the right to appeal this decision after five years.

This case highlights the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect, especially in cases involving vulnerable animals left in inhumane conditions. The community and authorities continue to advocate for responsible pet ownership and stricter enforcement of animal protection laws.