JACQUELINE WILSON FROM NORTON CANES SENTENCED FOR HORSE ABUSE IN CANNOCK

Jacqueline Rita Wilson, born around 1968 and residing on Chapel Street in Norton Canes, Cannock, was found guilty of causing severe neglect to her horse, Duchess, which ultimately led to the animal's death. The tragic case highlights the devastating consequences of prolonged animal cruelty and neglect.

Wilson's failure to provide proper care resulted in Duchess being severely starved and left in a state of extreme emaciation. The horse was discovered in a collapsed condition after months of neglect, lying helpless in a field along Coulter Lane, Burntwood. The RSPCA inspector Kate Levesley responded to the scene and was confronted with a heartbreaking sight: a red road cob, so thin and weak that it was barely recognizable as a horse. Duchess was found in a state of collapse, and it was believed she had been suffering in this condition for at least 24 hours before her discovery.

Despite efforts to save her, Duchess's condition was so dire that after a month of veterinary treatment with no signs of improvement, the decision was made to humanely euthanize her. Inspector Levesley described the scene, stating, “Duchess was really struggling to get up as she was so weak. The vet took one look at her and said she needed to get to the surgery as she was so poorly.” She further explained, “She was so skinny and clearly looked to be in pain. She was so ill that at first look you would have thought she wasn’t alive.”

Levesley emphasized the severity of Duchess’s suffering, noting that the veterinary team confirmed she was in such a critical state that her condition warranted seizure by the police. The veterinary examination revealed that Duchess was suffering from a stomach infection that had gone untreated, which had become so severe that recovery was impossible. Additionally, there was a complete lack of basic necessities such as food, water, grazing, or shelter in the field where she was kept. When food and water were finally provided, Duchess immediately ate and drank, indicating her prolonged deprivation.

Wilson pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to Duchess. Her sentencing included a 12-week prison term, suspended for 18 months, along with a requirement to complete 40 hours of unpaid community service. Furthermore, she was handed a five-year ban on keeping animals, which expired in November 2023. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible animal ownership and the devastating impact neglect can have on innocent creatures.