FREDERICK JAMES OF STONE FACES JUSTICE FOR HORRIFIC ANIMAL NEGLECT ON HIS FARM

Frederick James, a farmer residing in Stone, was found guilty in 2017 of severe animal welfare violations on his property located at Meaford View, Old Road, Oulton Heath, Stone ST15 8US. The case centered around the neglect and poor treatment of livestock, particularly a cow that was in a dire state of health and suffering from neglect.

On February 20, 2017, authorities from North Staffordshire Justice Centre, including an animal welfare officer and a veterinarian, visited James’s farm situated on Wash Dale Lane, Stone. The visit was prompted by reports of a dead cow in one of the fields. Upon inspection, the officials discovered a distressing scene: cattle wandering in slurry, their living conditions deplorable, with no dry area for resting, and sheds that had not been cleaned for months. The animals appeared to be suffering from neglect, with some in visibly poor health.

One of the most shocking findings was a cow that was described as 'barely breathing' and missing an eye. The animal was found lying in a state of severe distress, prompting immediate action from the veterinary team. The vet confirmed that the cow was being subjected to unnecessary suffering and ordered its destruction to prevent further pain and suffering.

During questioning, Frederick James admitted that he had not called for veterinary assistance for his animals. He explained that his financial difficulties, exacerbated by low milk prices, prevented him from seeking help. James stated he was short of cash and felt embarrassed about the situation, which contributed to his failure to act promptly to save the suffering animal.

James pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and three counts of failing to ensure the welfare of his livestock. The court heard that at the time, James was receiving only 14 pence per litre for his milk, while it cost him approximately 21 pence to produce each litre. His financial struggles were compounded by debts, including a £2,000 bill owed to his previous vet, who had refused to attend until the debt was settled. Since then, James has made significant changes to his farm management. His new veterinarian now operates on a pay-as-you-go basis, alleviating some of his financial burdens.

Prosecutor Khalid Mahmood outlined the severity of the case, emphasizing the neglect and suffering inflicted upon the animals. The court was told that the conditions on James’s farm were unacceptable, with animals walking in slurry and living in unsanitary conditions for months.

Following the sentencing, Councillor Gill Heath, the cabinet member for communities, issued a statement condemning the neglect. She described the case as shocking and underscored that such behavior would not be tolerated. She reaffirmed the local authority’s commitment to protecting animal welfare and ensuring that neglect and disregard for animal health are met with swift and decisive action. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper animal care and the consequences of neglect in rural communities like Stone.