ANIMAL ABUSER FROM DERSINGHAM, NORFOLK, HANDED MIXED SENTENCES FOR NEGLECT
Emma Townshend and Jason ‘Jay’ Drewry were convicted of causing unnecessary suffering and failing to meet the needs of their female German Shepherd-type dog, Marmaduke, in a prosecution brought by the RSPCA.Inspectors attended the couple’s home after concerns were raised for Marmaduke’s welfare.
Initial veterinary examinaton found that she was suffering an untreated chronic skin disease, which had caused extensive fur loss, soreness and irritation.
In a statement presented to the court, RSPCA Inspector Ben Kirby said: “Marmaduke had significant hair loss across her back and hindquarters, her skin appeared sore and inflamed and there was a strong smell of yeast.
“It was clear she had been suffering for some time without the veterinary care she desperately needed.” Marmaduke was seized by police under the Animal Welfare Act and placed in RSPCA care.
Further veterinary examination determined she had a severe skin disease, most likely caused by parasites or allergies.
Left untreated, the condition had caused her prolonged discomfort and irritation for a minimum of two months.
Marmaduke is now doing well and being cared for by staff at the RSPCA Danaher Animal Home, where she is waiting to find her forever family.
Townshend and Drewry pleaded not guilty to animal cruelty, which took place between 2 March and 4 May 2023, but were convicted in their absence on 4 November 2025.
In mitigation, the court heard that Townsend “suffered with her mental health”, while Drewry had been “battling drug and alcohol issues”.
Following the sentencing, RSPCA Chief Inspector Kathryn Parfitt said: “Poor Marmaduke would have been in terrible pain, and it is heartbreaking to know that she suffered so needlessly.
“Owning an animal is a serious and lifelong responsibility – when problems arise, it’s vital to get professional advice straight away rather than allow an animal to deteriorate.”
