MARIE STANIFORTH FROM HOLMROOK SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOG IN CUMBRIA

Marie Elizabeth Staniforth, a woman previously residing in Holmrook and later in Dales End, Wellington, Seascale, Cumbria, was convicted of animal cruelty in 2016 after a disturbing case involving a severely neglected lurcher dog came to light. Born on July 25, 1984, Staniforth, who was also known by her maiden name Marie Tattersall, faced serious charges after an emaciated dog was discovered in a near-death state, prompting a detailed investigation by local authorities and animal welfare organizations.

Staniforth, who at the time owned Acorns Pre-School in Cleator Moor, appeared before magistrates over a two-day trial to answer allegations of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal between January and February of 2016. The case drew significant attention due to the severity of the dog's condition and the circumstances surrounding its neglect. An RSPCA inspector described the dog as “the skinniest dog he had seen alive,” highlighting the extreme malnutrition and dehydration that the animal was suffering from.

During the proceedings, Staniforth denied the charges, asserting that she was not responsible for the dog's condition. However, the evidence presented in court painted a different picture. Joan Singleton, owner of Fairview Boarding Kennels, testified that she received a call on February 16 from an individual claiming to have found a stray lurcher-type dog on an industrial estate in Cleator Moor. The caller provided Staniforth’s mobile number and her address on Highfield Road, from where the dog was subsequently collected.

Following the discovery, the RSPCA launched an investigation to trace the dog's original owners. The charity received approximately 30 responses, with about 25 of those responses identifying Staniforth as the owner. RSPCA inspector Martyn Fletcher recounted visiting the house where the dog was collected, attempting to speak with the person who found the animal. During the visit, he observed a dog cage outside the property containing what appeared to be two or three-day-old feces, indicating neglect.

Staniforth, a mother of four and heavily pregnant with her fifth child at the time, was warned that she would no longer be permitted to keep animals. She was cautioned and interviewed by Inspector Fletcher in March, during which she claimed that the dog, named Charlie, had gone missing during a walk on January 24. She insisted she was not responsible for the dog's poor condition. However, this account was challenged by community nurse Hayley Dawkins, who visited Staniforth’s home on February 3 and observed a dog matching Charlie’s description in the porch area.

Despite her explanations, the court did not accept Staniforth’s version of events. Evidence showed that the dog had been left with minimal or no food and water for approximately a month, leading to its emaciated state. The court found her guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, and she was sentenced to 126 days in prison, along with a £281.70 donation to the RSPCA and an £80 surcharge. Additionally, she was banned for life from owning or keeping any animals.

Following the sentencing, Inspector Fletcher emphasized the importance of animal welfare and responsibility. He stated, “There are never winners in situations like this, we are here because an animal has suffered cruelty. Families have lives disrupted but animals come with responsibility and if you don’t take that responsibility, there are consequences. It sends a strong message.” He praised Joan Singleton for her role in rescuing the dog, noting that she had undoubtedly saved its life. Fletcher also highlighted the support available for individuals struggling to care for animals, reassuring that organizations like the RSPCA are there to help.

It was noted that the initial 18-week custodial sentence was later overturned on appeal, with magistrates ruling that it was “disproportionate” and failed to consider the impact on Staniforth’s family life. She had already served 10 days in custody before being resentenced to a two-week prison term, which she was to serve immediately upon release.