JASON AND TONI WOODFORD FROM LYDD-ON-SEA SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOGS AND NEGLECT

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Lydd-on-Sea, Kent, Jason and Toni Woodford faced justice after their neglect led to the tragic death of their beloved Yorkshire terrier, Samson. The incident, which unfolded at their residence on Lade Fort Crescent, revealed a heartbreaking level of animal cruelty that prompted a thorough investigation by the RSPCA.

According to court records, the Woodfords, who pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering, left their dog in a severely neglected state. Samson, affectionately known as Sammy, was found with a maggot-infested wound on his nose so severe that veterinary professionals determined he could not be saved and had to be euthanized. The couple claimed ignorance about the extent of his suffering, asserting they did not notice the maggots or how the injury had worsened.

Investigators learned that the injury was likely caused by a muzzle being left on too tightly or for an extended period, or possibly by something tied around the dog’s nose. The court was told that the injury was not accidental but the result of deliberate neglect. The couple also owned another dog, a pug named Bobby, who was seized by the RSPCA due to health concerns. Bobby was suffering from a cancerous growth on his lip, which was confirmed by veterinary examination, and he is now under the care of animal welfare authorities.

Prosecutor Sophie Read detailed the timeline of events, revealing that the couple had delayed seeking treatment for Samson. When they finally took him to a veterinarian, his condition had deteriorated beyond recovery. An RSPCA inspector visited their home shortly after the vet visit and was told by Mr. Woodford that the dog had been missing for nine days before returning in his injured state. During the inspection, the inspector observed a dirty cage housing a grey parrot and noted the pug’s cancerous growth.

Further investigation uncovered inconsistencies in the Woodfords’ accounts. When questioned separately, their stories about how long Samson had been missing did not align. Mrs. Read explained that the vet believed the injury was caused by a muzzle or tie left on too tightly, with maggots indicating a delay in treatment. The couple initially denied tying anything around Samson’s nose, claiming he had been missing for only 24 hours and suggesting he might have been stung or bitten by a snake.

During subsequent interviews, Mr. Woodford changed his story, stating that Samson had been missing for four or five days and that they had tried to care for him upon his return, feeding him chicken and rice and offering love and prayers. Despite their efforts, the wound’s foul smell indicated the severity of neglect.

Defense lawyer Lewis Holloway argued that the Woodfords had intended to care for Samson and that their actions, though misguided, stemmed from well-meaning but incompetent care. He emphasized that the couple had a history of good pet ownership, having cared for eight dogs over twenty years without prior issues. Holloway also noted that their other dog, Bobby, was 12 years old and had a cancerous lump, which had been checked by a vet, and that their parrot had also passed away of old age.

It was also revealed that Toni Woodford had no previous criminal record, whereas Jason Woodford had convictions from 24 years ago, though none related to animal cruelty.

The court sentenced the couple to a 12-month community order, including 15 rehabilitation sessions. They were also ordered to pay costs of £200 each, payable at a rate of £20 per month. Additionally, they received a four-year ban from keeping animals, which will expire in November 2027, as a measure to prevent future neglect.

This case has brought to light the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect, serving as a stark reminder to pet owners in Lydd-on-Sea and beyond.