JULIE AND CRAIG MCDERMOTT FROM BURTON-ON-TRENT CONVICTED OVER CRUELTY TO DOGS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Burton-on-Trent, Julie and Craig McDermott, residents of Devon Close, were found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to their pet dogs. The incident came to light in February 2018 when two dogs, a Black Labrador named Ebony and a brindle Staffy called Monty, were discovered wandering the streets in a severely emaciated state.

Concerned members of the public, alarmed by the dogs' appearance and condition, took immediate action by bringing them to the Swadlincote Veterinary Centre for urgent care. Upon examination, veterinary staff revealed that Ebony weighed only 18.4 kilograms, nearly 7 kilograms less than the typical weight for her breed and size. Monty was even more critically underweight, tipping the scales at just 10.8 kilograms, whereas a healthy weight for a Staffy of his size would be approximately 15 kilograms.

Monty was found to be extremely weak and suffering from an untreated skin infection, which had caused him significant discomfort. Ebony, on the other hand, was suffering from a bleeding tail wound that had been left untreated, indicating neglect and a lack of proper care by her owners. The investigation revealed that both dogs had been subjected to prolonged periods of neglect between February 7 and February 28, 2018.

The owners, Craig McDermott, who works as a part-time DJ and HGV driver, and his wife Julie, employed as a dinner lady at River View Primary School, admitted to the charges of animal cruelty. They pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to their dogs during the period in question.

Inspector Kate Levesley of the RSPCA, who was involved in the investigation, expressed her concern over the dogs' condition. She stated, “Both dogs were extremely thin, with their ribs, hips, and spine bones clearly protruding. Monty also had a skin condition that had been left untreated, causing him considerable discomfort. The dogs were very eager to eat as soon as they were offered food, which underscores the severity of their neglect. I find it hard to understand how someone could own a dog and not provide basic care. Even those struggling financially can seek help instead of allowing their pets to suffer.”

Fortunately, both Ebony and Monty have since been re-homed with loving families, giving them a second chance at life. The court proceedings resulted in Craig McDermott being fined £1,250, while his wife Julie received a fine of £300. Additionally, they were ordered to pay £150 in court costs. As part of the sentence, both were banned from owning any animals for a period of five years, a restriction that will expire in September 2023.