MARIA FLETCHER OF OSSETT SENTENCED AFTER CRUELTY TO DOG CHARLIE IN WAKEFIELD

Maria Fletcher, also known as Maria Blake and residing on Taylor Close in Ossett, was found guilty in connection with the neglect and mistreatment of her 12-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier, Charlie. The case, which drew attention to animal welfare concerns in the Wakefield area, revealed that Fletcher had left her dog suffering from a severe, untreated skin condition, despite being aware of her pet’s health issues.

On May 3, 2020, RSPCA inspector Kris Walker responded to a call at Fletcher’s residence, where he discovered six dogs kept in a disorderly and unkempt garden. Among these animals was Charlie, who appeared to be suffering from fur loss and sore, irritated skin. The inspector noted that the elderly Staffordshire bull terrier was in a painful state, with hair loss from her middle downward, redness, and signs of discomfort. Despite Fletcher’s claims that she had run out of shampoo and was registered at a local veterinary clinic, subsequent investigations revealed no records of Charlie being treated at any nearby vet.

Inspector Walker attempted to follow up with the veterinary clinics Fletcher mentioned, but both clinics confirmed they had no record of Charlie’s registration or treatment. Over the course of several weeks, Walker made multiple visits to Fletcher’s home, but she was uncooperative and abrasive, often yelling at him and denying the ongoing health issues of her dog. Eventually, Fletcher permitted Charlie to be taken to a veterinarian, who diagnosed her with a chronic, untreated skin condition that had caused significant suffering.

Following the diagnosis, police intervened and seized Charlie, placing her into the care of the RSPCA. Veterinary examinations revealed that her skin was scurfy, thickened, and she had a large patch of hair loss, accompanied by a yeasty smell and intense itching. The vets prescribed medication, and a follow-up visit a month later showed remarkable improvement; Charlie’s skin and coat were healthier, and she had gained weight. Despite her recovery, her fur never fully regrew, a lasting reminder of her neglect.

Throughout the investigation, Inspector Walker made fifteen attempts to interview Fletcher, but she refused to cooperate or sign over custody of Charlie. Due to her continued non-compliance, the case was taken to court. The court sought a disqualification order to prevent Fletcher from owning or caring for any animals in the future, ensuring that Charlie and her other pets would be protected from further neglect. It was noted that Fletcher’s remaining five dogs, all French bulldogs, were not suffering from welfare concerns at the time, although she admitted she was struggling to care for them. Consequently, she signed over two of these dogs to the RSPCA, and she claimed that the remaining animals had been rehomed.

Charlie was placed with a foster family after her recovery, and she has since been adopted. Her new owners report that she enjoys long walks, trips to the seaside, and has become more confident and lively. Her health has improved significantly, although her fur has not fully returned. Fletcher was sentenced to pay £150 in costs and received a three-year disqualification order, which expired in December 2023, preventing her from owning or caring for any animals during that period. This case highlights ongoing concerns about animal cruelty and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding vulnerable pets in the Wakefield district.