JAMES THOROGOOD HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY IN HASTINGS COURT REVEALED

James Thorogood, a man born on 18 September 1995 and currently residing on London Road, St Leonards, Hastings, was found guilty of severe animal cruelty charges in May 2025. The court's verdict followed a detailed investigation into his treatment of six large dogs, which included a Turkish Kangal named Luna, American bulldogs Magnus and Nala, a Staffy called Emma, an Asian shepherd named Freya, and a Doberman known as Jolly.

These animals were kept in deplorable conditions within a cramped flat, which raised serious concerns about their welfare. The situation came to light when the RSPCA intervened on December 1, 2023, seizing the dogs after receiving multiple reports from witnesses. These reports included audio recordings capturing Thorogood’s aggressive outbursts and descriptions of the foul, overpowering smell emanating from his residence.

During court proceedings, it was revealed that Thorogood had admitted to shouting and screaming at the dogs, as well as smashing objects in his flat during episodes of anger. However, he denied physically assaulting the animals. Witness testimonies and expert assessments painted a grim picture of the environment, with one inspector describing the interior as reeking of urine and feces. A veterinarian confirmed that the dogs would have experienced significant fear and trauma due to the conditions and the owner’s aggressive behavior.

Thorogood’s criminal history includes previous convictions for assaulting a police officer, which added weight to the court’s concerns about his treatment of animals. Despite denying allegations that he failed to meet the animals’ basic needs under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, the court found him guilty after a trial. He has since lodged an appeal against the conviction.

The court imposed a comprehensive sentence, including a 12-month community order, 180 hours of unpaid work, and 15 days of rehabilitation. Additionally, Thorogood was ordered to pay costs amounting to £2,250 and a victim surcharge of £114. A significant part of the ruling was a ban on keeping any animals for ten years, a restriction that will remain in effect until April 2035, aimed at preventing any future cruelty or neglect.