LAWRENCE COLEMAN FROM LIVERSEDGE SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO CAT CHARLIE

Lawrence Peter Coleman, a resident of Bradford Road in Liversedge, was found guilty in connection with the suffering of his long-haired cat, Charlie. The incident came to light after concerns were raised about the animal's health, prompting an investigation by the RSPCA.

Charlie was observed limping, which led to the involvement of RSPCA Inspector Kris Walker. Upon arriving at the scene, Inspector Walker immediately noticed a troubling sight: a black collar tightly wrapped around Charlie's left foreleg. Even before approaching the animal closely, the inspector detected a foul odor, which he identified as likely being caused by infection.

When Inspector Walker carefully lifted Charlie, he observed a significant open wound beneath the cat's left foreleg, from which pus was visibly oozing. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the inspector promptly took Charlie to a veterinary clinic for urgent treatment. The veterinarian examined the cat and confirmed that Charlie had been suffering unnecessarily for at least two to three weeks, due to the embedded collar and the resulting injury.

Following the examination, Charlie was seized by police and transferred into the care of the RSPCA. He remained at the veterinary clinic overnight, as he required surgery to remove the embedded collar and treat the infected wound. During the procedure, it was discovered that the collar had become deeply embedded in the tissue of Charlie's left axilla, causing muscle damage. The buckle of the collar was tangled in his long hair coat, complicating the removal process. After the collar was successfully removed, the wound was thoroughly cleaned, and Charlie was prescribed antibiotics to combat the infection. Fortunately, he has since made a good recovery.

During the court proceedings, it was highlighted that Coleman had effectively 'turned a blind eye' to Charlie’s deteriorating condition, neglecting to seek medical attention for his pet. Inspector Walker emphasized the importance of regular health checks for pets, warning that such neglect can lead to severe suffering and avoidable injuries.

As part of the court's ruling, a deprivation order was issued for Charlie, allowing the RSPCA to find him a new, caring home. Coleman was sentenced to a 12-month community order, which includes 80 hours of unpaid community service. Additionally, he was ordered to pay costs and charges totaling £390. The court also disqualified Coleman from keeping any animals for a period of five years, a ban that will expire in December 2025.