LORNA VINCE FROM BEDDINGTON SENTENCED AFTER ABANDONING EMACIATED HUSKIES IN CROWDON

Lorna Vince, also known as Lorna Jackson, a woman born on December 3, 1954, and residing on Oakmead Road in Beddington, Croydon, was involved in a disturbing case of animal neglect that drew significant attention from local authorities and animal welfare organizations. The incident came to light after she abandoned six severely malnourished huskies at her daughter’s residence, an act that shocked those who knew her and raised serious concerns about animal cruelty.

According to reports, the dogs had been left without adequate food or exercise, leading to their emaciated condition. The animals were so dehydrated that they attempted to drink from a bucket of bleach, a clear indication of their desperate state. The severity of their suffering was evident to anyone who saw them, and the case garnered media coverage due to the dogs’ unusual appearances and the circumstances surrounding their abandonment.

Remarkably, three of these dogs appeared in the music video for the Spice Girls’ hit song "Goodbye" and also featured on the album cover of the electronic duo Goldfrapp. This contrast between their former appearances and their current condition highlighted the tragic neglect they had endured.

It was revealed that Vince had previously been involved in dog racing, having competed with a team of ten dogs in events organized by the British Siberian Racing Association. Despite her experience and knowledge of caring for such animals, she failed to provide the necessary care for these six huskies.

Chantal Vince, her daughter who lives just three doors down from her mother, and her estranged husband Arthur, who would regularly deliver food to help feed the dogs, were both horrified upon discovering the state of the animals. They immediately contacted the RSPCA, which responded swiftly and collected the dogs the following day. The six dogs, named Shade, Coda, Magic, Cashmere, Manson, and Red, were subsequently rehomed to loving families.

During the court proceedings, Lorna Vince denied ownership of the dogs and claimed she had not left them with her daughter. However, evidence and testimonies proved otherwise. She was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal by neglecting to provide a nutritious and wholesome diet. RSPCA Inspector Rebecca London described the scene upon her first inspection, stating, “When I first saw the six dogs it was completely shocking. Compared to how fit and healthy huskies usually are, these dogs were almost like skeletons.” She further emphasized the owner’s breach of responsibility, noting, “This was a horrible case made worse because the owner was an experienced breeder and knew how to look after the dogs properly, but just did not do so.”

Chantal Vince gave testimony against her mother, recounting her shock upon discovering the dogs in such a dire state. She explained, “I was flabbergasted at the condition of the dogs. I couldn’t recognize who was who. They were in urgent need of medical care, and all I could think of was calling the RSPCA. One was so lifeless I wasn’t sure she would survive the night.”

In sentencing, Lorna Vince received a 12-week custodial sentence, which was suspended for two years. She was also ordered to pay £500 in costs and was banned from owning pets for the rest of her life. The case served as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglecting those who cannot speak for themselves.