LEE JACKSON FROM WALKERGATE SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC ANIMAL NEGLECT IN NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

Lee Jackson, a resident of Tumulus Avenue in Walkergate, Newcastle upon Tyne, was found guilty of severe animal neglect after abandoning his dog and cat in an uninhabited flat for at least a week without providing any food or water. The distressing case came to light when police officers, responding to Jackson’s instructions, contacted the RSPCA to remove the animals from the property.

On June 16, 2022, RSPCA Inspector Jaqui Miller, accompanied by police and a housing officer, visited the dilapidated flat. The scene was described as 'unkempt,' reflecting the neglect that had taken place. The inspector immediately took the dog, a geriatric bull terrier named Oscar, and a cat named Major to a veterinary clinic for urgent medical attention.

Oscar was found in a deplorable state, suffering from numerous untreated tumours scattered across his body and legs. His fur was patchy and he was heavily infested with fleas. The dog’s condition was so severe that veterinarians decided to euthanize him to prevent further suffering. The vet’s examination revealed that Oscar’s health had deteriorated to a critical point, with large, uncomfortable growths on his chest and in his mouth, causing him significant pain and difficulty in movement. The skin over the tumours was thin, fragile, and damaged, with raw patches that oozed fluid due to constant scratching caused by intense itchiness.

In contrast, Major, the cat, was underweight and suffering from a severe flea infestation. Fortunately, after treatment, Major made a full recovery and was placed in a new loving home. However, Oscar’s condition was far beyond saving, and the decision was made to put him to sleep. The vet explained that the untreated tumours had caused him ongoing pain for several weeks, with the oral tumour being particularly painful and progressively worsening. The veterinarian described Oscar’s suffering as severe and ongoing, emphasizing that the neglect had led to his tragic demise.

During the court proceedings, Jackson, who was already serving time on unrelated charges, pleaded guilty to four animal welfare offences. He was subsequently sentenced to a 12-week prison term, suspended for 12 months. Additionally, he was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £128 and was banned from keeping animals for five years, a restriction that will remain in effect until March 2028.

Following the sentencing, RSPCA Inspector Jaqui Miller expressed her distress over the case, stating, “Oscar was in a shocking state with one of the worst flea burdens I have ever seen. He was in terrible distress and discomfort with his skin and the many untreated tumours all over his body. The mass in his mouth made it painful for him to eat, and veterinary treatment should have been sought much earlier for both animals. Sadly, Oscar’s life could not be saved due to the extent of neglect, but I am pleased to report that Major recovered well and is now in a caring new home.”