KIMBERLEY DIXON AND CALUM JONES FROM WELSHPOOL STARVE DOGS TO DEATH IN HORRIFIC CRUELTY CASE

Kimberley Georgina Dixon, also known as Kimberley Roberts, born on November 13, 1994, and Calum Scott Jones, born on March 20, 1992, both previously residing at Heol Bowys in Llanfair Caereinion, Welshpool, have been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to their two dogs through neglect and cruelty. The disturbing case involves the tragic death of a Labrador named Bronson and a German Shepherd named Kiara, both of whom were subjected to a prolonged period of starvation over the course of more than a month.

According to the prosecution, represented by Mr. Huw Wyn Williams on behalf of the RSPCA, the couple deliberately deprived their dogs of adequate food and a suitable living environment, resulting in their suffering and eventual death. The court was told that the dogs had been confined in a utility room, where they were kept locked away and starved. The first concerns about the animals' welfare emerged in July 2015 when Social Services raised alarms about their condition, prompting an inspection by RSPCA Inspector Lewis.

Inspector Lewis observed that both dogs appeared extremely thin, prompting a change in their diet. By September 2015, the dogs had gained some weight, indicating a temporary improvement. Kiara, the German Shepherd, was described as a 'picky eater,' which the owners claimed contributed to her poor condition. Despite this, further concerns arose later that year, culminating in reports on December 18, 2015, that the dogs had died and were buried in the couple’s garden.

The couple maintained that the dogs were in good health the day before their deaths. However, after an exhumation order was granted, the remains of Bronson and Kiara were sent to Liverpool University for detailed examination. The post-mortem results revealed a shocking level of neglect: there was no residual fat on either dog, and their bodies showed signs of extreme emaciation. Bronson, who should have weighed between 25 and 30 kilograms, was found to weigh only 8.1 kilograms. Similarly, Kiara, expected to weigh between 30 and 40 kilograms, was just 11.6 kilograms.

The veterinary report described the animals as little more than skeletons, with the inability to stand or move properly. It was estimated that they would have collapsed approximately 48 hours before their deaths due to the severe lack of nutrition, which had persisted for four weeks. The report painted a grim picture of prolonged suffering, with the dogs likely experiencing immense pain and weakness in their final days.

During police interviews, the couple described Kiara as a 'picky eater' and claimed that Bronson would rush through his food and then vomit. These explanations were viewed as inadequate given the evidence of deliberate neglect. The case drew significant attention to the couple’s failure to care for their pets properly, highlighting the severity of their actions.

Owain Jones, acting as the defense for the couple, presented arguments to the magistrates emphasizing their remorse and the reasons they should not face immediate imprisonment. He acknowledged their full responsibility and admitted that they had been 'grossly negligent on many levels.' Jones explained that both Kimberley Dixon and Calum Jones were suffering from mental health issues—Dixon with depression and both with anxiety—and described them as vulnerable individuals overwhelmed by their circumstances, including the challenge of caring for their children alongside the dogs.

Jones requested that, if the court decided to impose a custodial sentence, it be suspended for the benefit of the couple’s two young children. He also asked that, in the event of a ban on owning animals, an exception be made for their pet budgie, as losing the bird would be too distressing for the children. The magistrates, however, described the couple’s gross negligence as 'disturbing' and a serious breach of animal welfare standards.

In sentencing, Kimberley Dixon received a 12-week jail term, suspended for two years, while Calum Jones was sentenced to eight weeks, also suspended for two years. Both were ordered to pay costs and charges amounting to £230 each. Additionally, they were disqualified from owning any animals for 15 years, with the ban set to expire in 2031.

As of 2018, both Kimberley Dixon and Calum Jones have separated and are now living with new partners. Jones remains in the Llanfair Caereinion area at Trembanwy, while Dixon has relocated to Lower Hill Street in Blaenavon, Pontypool. The case remains a stark reminder of the consequences of neglect and cruelty towards animals, highlighting the importance of animal welfare laws and enforcement in Wales.