LINDA COOPER OF BUGLE SENTENCED FOR STARVING ELDERLY DOG TO DEATH IN ST AUSTELL

In a tragic case that has shocked the community of Bugle and the surrounding areas, Linda Cooper, a resident of Riverside Caravan Park on Minorca Lane, was found guilty of causing the death of her elderly dog through neglect and starvation. The incident, which took place in the vicinity of St Austell, has brought to light serious concerns about animal welfare and the responsibilities of pet owners.

Linda Cooper, born around 1971, was convicted in 2018 after it was revealed that she had failed to provide adequate care for her 11-year-old dog, Kano. The dog was suffering from severe malnutrition and a chronic liver condition, which ultimately led to his death. Cooper’s neglect was so severe that Kano had to be euthanized after being taken to a veterinarian by a friend in February 2018. Despite six days of intensive treatment, the dog could not be saved.

The RSPCA, represented by prosecutor Lindi Meyer, described Kano’s condition as “completely emaciated from prolonged neglect” and noted that he was barely able to walk. The dog was also suffering from jaundice and fleas, indicating a long period of suffering and poor care. Ms. Meyer explained that Kano had been owned by Cooper for approximately two years, during which time a neighbor had expressed concern about the dog’s health and urged Cooper to seek veterinary assistance. However, Cooper claimed she was unable to take Kano to the vet herself. When the neighbor took it upon themselves to seek treatment, Cooper did not even attend the vet appointment.

It was only after the intervention of the neighbor and the police that Kano was seized and taken into the care of the RSPCA. The vet’s examination revealed a body mass score of just 1 out of 5, indicating extreme emaciation, along with signs of jaundice and ongoing liver disease. The vet also observed muscle loss in Kano’s skull, a clear sign of prolonged suffering. Despite the veterinary team’s efforts to provide care, Kano’s condition was too advanced, and he was euthanized. The investigation uncovered that the neglect had persisted for weeks, if not months, with the dog enduring severe pain and suffering.

During the court proceedings, Cooper attempted to shift blame onto the veterinarian, but the evidence clearly demonstrated her awareness of Kano’s deteriorating condition. Prosecutor Meyer emphasized that Cooper was fully aware of her dog’s suffering and chose not to seek help, showing a blatant disregard for the animal’s welfare. She also pointed out that Cooper had shown no remorse for her actions and had ignored concerns raised by neighbors.

In her defense, Charles Hulley, representing Cooper, highlighted her struggles with addiction and the fact that her children had been taken away from her. He argued that her primary focus was on her own well-being and that she would benefit from support from the Probation Service. Hulley also claimed that financial difficulties prevented her from taking Kano to the vet earlier.

Judge Diane Baker delivered the sentence, noting that Cooper’s guilty plea, her long period out of prison, and her honesty about her drug addiction were factors in her favor. However, she condemned Cooper’s actions, stating, “It was obvious the dog was suffering and this went on for a prolonged period of time. Kano was losing weight rapidly causing neighbors to intervene. You were effectively starving the dog to death and despite a lot of work that poor dog still died.” The judge further criticized Cooper’s lack of remorse, emphasizing that her priorities appeared to be centered on her drug use rather than her responsibilities as a pet owner.

As a result, Linda Cooper was sentenced to a 14-week prison term, suspended for 12 months. She was also ordered to complete 20 days of rehabilitation activities, pay £300 in costs and a victim surcharge, and was banned from owning or keeping animals for life. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglecting those who cannot speak for themselves.