LAIN ELLIOTT AND TINA WILSON FROM MARDEN AND TUNBRIDGE WELLS SENTENCED OVER CRUELTY TO DOG COCO

In a disturbing case that highlights severe neglect and animal cruelty, Lain Elliott, aged 54, of Cranham Square in Marden, and Tina Wilson, aged 51, of Sandhurst Close in Tunbridge Wells, faced justice after their failure to care for a dog named Coco. The incident came to light in October 2015 when concerns about Coco’s health prompted the RSPCA to intervene at Wilson’s residence in Sandhurst Close.

Upon arrival, RSPCA inspector Andrew Kirby found Coco in a deplorable state. The dog, estimated to be between two and three years old, was suffering from a severe skin condition that had been left untreated for at least four to five months. Coco was observed sitting on the sofa, appearing lethargic, in pain, and displaying a profound sense of misery. Her fur was missing over at least half of her body, with her legs, muzzle, and underbelly completely bare. Her skin was thickened, resembling rhino skin, and was raw, red, and oozing pus. The inspector noted that Coco’s claws had grown into the pads of her paws, severely impairing her ability to walk, which further underscored her suffering.

Veterinary assessment confirmed the severity of her condition, leading the vet to conclude that the kindest course of action was to euthanize Coco to prevent further pain and suffering. The case revealed a tragic neglect, with the dog’s health deteriorating over several months due to the owners’ failure to provide necessary medication and care.

Legal proceedings followed, revealing that both Elliott and Wilson had pleaded guilty to charges related to neglect. They admitted to failing to meet Coco’s basic needs by not maintaining her medication regimen. Additionally, Elliott faced a more serious charge as he had previously been disqualified from keeping any animals for life in 2011, a restriction he was found to have breached.

In the courtroom, the judge sentenced Elliott to 60 days in prison, suspended for 18 months, along with an 18-month rehabilitation order and six months of alcohol treatment. He was also ordered to pay costs amounting to £437.50. Wilson received a 12-month community order, a curfew, and was disqualified from keeping dogs for five years, a restriction that expired in April 2021. She was also ordered to pay costs of £337.50.

This case underscores the importance of animal welfare laws and the consequences faced by those who neglect their responsibilities. The tragic case of Coco serves as a stark reminder of the cruelty that can occur when neglect is allowed to go unchecked, and the vital role of organizations like the RSPCA in protecting vulnerable animals in communities such as Marden and Tunbridge Wells.