DEVONPORT WOMAN HALEY CROSHAW SENTENCED AFTER HORSES SUFFER SEVERE INJURIES IN DEVONPORT

In a distressing case that has drawn significant attention from animal welfare authorities, Haley Croshaw, a woman residing in Devonport, was found guilty of neglecting her horses and leaving them to endure painful injuries without proper treatment. Croshaw, also known by her previous surname Knill, was born on January 28, 1986, and her most recent known address was on Poole Park Road in Plymouth, which is in close proximity to Devonport.

Her case came to light after concerns were raised by members of the public, prompting an RSPCA inspector to investigate a farm located in Callington on May 18, 2019. The inspector discovered two horses suffering from severe, untreated wounds, which had been inflicted by other horses and had been left to fester for an extended period.

The first horse, a bay gelding named Spirit, was found with multiple injuries caused by bites and kicks from a stallion. The wounds were so severe that they had become infected, with one notable abscess on his neck and a large necrotic wound on his left side, measuring approximately four inches by five inches. Fly-strike had set in on the necrotic tissue, indicating neglect over several weeks. Spirit also had infected wounds on his right hind leg and an infected wound on his back right leg, which caused him to be significantly lame. Veterinary experts who examined Spirit concluded that he had been suffering for a considerable amount of time, with the injuries likely left untreated for at least a couple of weeks. The wounds suggested a failure on the part of the owner to manage the horses properly and prevent fighting, which could have mitigated the injuries.

The second horse, known as Maybelou, was found with injuries caused by an ill-fitting headcollar. These injuries had also been left untreated, further highlighting the neglect and lack of proper care provided by Croshaw.

Inspector Jon Phipps from the RSPCA expressed his dismay at the situation, stating, “These horses were left to suffer needlessly as a result of irresponsible ownership and lack of care. These two horses were both left with serious injuries for which no veterinary attention was sought. Owners have a duty of care to their animals and must ensure they are safe from harm and receive the care they need.”

Fortunately, both horses have since recovered from their injuries and have been rehomed to new, caring owners. However, Croshaw’s neglect did not go unpunished. She was sentenced to a 16-week prison term, which was suspended for one year, and was ordered to pay a total of £415 in costs and charges. Additionally, she received a ten-year ban from keeping horses, which will remain in effect until November 2029.

This case underscores the importance of responsible animal ownership and the consequences of neglecting the welfare of animals entrusted to one’s care, especially in regions like Devonport and the surrounding areas.