LYNDAY NETHERTON'S BRUTAL ATTACK ON DOGS IN BLYTH: COURT DECISION DEFIES ANIMAL CRUELTY CHARGES

In March 2022, a disturbing incident unfolded in Blyth, Northumberland, involving a woman named Lyndsay Netherton, whose actions towards her pet dogs, Sasha and Alfie, shocked witnesses and prompted police intervention. Despite her repeated cruelty, Netherton narrowly avoided a ban on owning animals, raising questions about the enforcement of animal welfare laws.

According to reports, Netherton was seen by a concerned passer-by in the bustling Blyth Market Place around 4:15 pm on July 2 of the previous year. The witness observed her in a visibly agitated state, holding a bottle of vodka and drinking from it openly. The situation quickly escalated as Netherton was seen physically assaulting her two Staffordshire Bull Terriers. Witnesses described her behavior as aggressive and unhinged, with her actions including repeatedly kicking the dogs and pushing their heads into the concrete ground.

The witness recounted seeing Netherton bend down and place her open hand on one of the dogs, then forcefully push it down until the animal's head was pressed against the pavement. This aggressive act was repeated multiple times, with Netherton gritting her teeth as she carried out the assault. The dogs appeared visibly frightened, and one of them managed to break free, running towards the witness in what seemed to be a plea for protection. The injured dog bore scars across its face, yet remained close to the witness despite Netherton calling it back.

Police officers responded swiftly to the scene. Body-worn camera footage captured Netherton in a highly distressed state, slurring her speech, foaming at the mouth, and exhibiting dilated pupils. She was also observed to have wet herself, indicating her intoxication and possible distress. During her arrest, Netherton attempted to stand but lost her balance, falling face-first onto the ground and needing to support herself by holding onto a nearby tree.

Following her arrest, Netherton was charged with being drunk and disorderly. She pleaded guilty to these charges but denied the two counts of animal cruelty brought against her. Despite her denial, she was convicted after a trial and appeared before South East Northumberland Magistrates' Court to face sentencing.

Prosecutor Niamh Reading detailed the incident, emphasizing the witness's account of Netherton's aggressive behavior and her apparent intoxication. The court was told that scars on the injured dog indicated prior abuse, and the animal had sought refuge near the witness, showing signs of fear and trauma.

At the sentencing hearing, magistrates considered the evidence and Netherton's behavior. She was sentenced to a 12-month community order, which includes 100 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, she was ordered to pay £620 in court costs and a £95 victim surcharge. Magistrate Iain McCourt stated that the incident was likely a one-off occurrence and that disqualifying her from owning animals would be disproportionate, given the circumstances.

This case highlights ongoing concerns about animal cruelty and the importance of vigilant community reporting. While Netherton avoided a complete ban on owning animals, her punishment underscores the seriousness with which such offenses are treated in the judicial system.