HANNAH BAMFORD FROM GEDLING SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC ANIMAL NEGLECT IN NOTTINGHAM

Hannah Elizabeth Bamford, born on July 6, 1988, and residing on County Road in Gedling, Nottingham NG4 4JN, became the focus of a heartbreaking case of animal neglect that drew significant attention from local authorities and the community alike.

According to court reports, Bamford was responsible for the welfare of her family’s dog, Jake, a loyal collie cross who had been part of her life for 14 years. Tragically, she left Jake alone in her council house located in Welton Gardens, Bulwell, Nottingham, for an extended period, neglecting his basic needs for food and water. The neglect was so severe that Jake was found dead inside her residence after being abandoned for several weeks.

Neighbors, disturbed by the sight of flies swarming around the end-terrace house, contacted the police, prompting an investigation into the welfare of the dog. When authorities arrived, they discovered Jake's emaciated body near a toilet, where the seat was down, indicating he had been unable to access water. The scene was a stark and tragic reminder of the extent of the neglect.

Veterinary experts examined Jake’s remains and confirmed that he had suffered immensely. The vet explained that Jake would have endured significant physical pain from dehydration and starvation, and mentally, his drive to find water would have intensified his suffering. The court was told that Jake had been dead for approximately two to three weeks, highlighting the prolonged period of neglect.

Hannah Bamford faced charges of causing unnecessary suffering to her dog, specifically for failing to provide adequate nutrition, hydration, daily care, and supervision between June 28 and August 24, 2013. The case revealed that Bamford had moved out of her home due to mounting debts and was living with her mother. She left Jake behind because her mother had a cat, and the animals did not get along, which contributed to her decision to abandon him.

During court proceedings, Bamford stated that she initially returned to her old home to feed Jake, who she had owned since he was a puppy, and to let him out and play with him. However, her actions changed over time. Her solicitor, Robert Keeble, explained that Bamford did not check on Jake for a day, which then extended to two days, and eventually a week. Fear of what she might find prevented her from returning, and her anxiety grew, leading her to believe she had passed the point of no return.

Keeble emphasized that Bamford was remorseful, acknowledging her wrongdoing and the lifelong burden of guilt she carried. She was suffering from depression and had debts exceeding £7,500, which contributed to her circumstances. She was working part-time at the time and had moved in with her mother, feeling overwhelmed by her financial and emotional struggles.

Prosecutor Andy Cash highlighted that a veterinarian confirmed Jake had been dead for two to three weeks before discovery. The court was told that Bamford had not considered seeking help from the PDSA Vet Care services, which assist pet owners on benefits, despite her financial difficulties.

In sentencing, the magistrates imposed a 28-day prison term on Bamford and banned her from keeping any animals for ten years. The ban was set to expire in February 2024. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the offense, noting that the prolonged neglect and the suffering inflicted on Jake warranted custodial punishment. The case served as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the devastating consequences of neglect.