MATTHEW COFFIN'S CRUELTY IN REDBRIDGE: CAT ABUSE SHOCKS SOUTHAMPTON

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Matthew Coffin, also known by aliases such as Matthew Jones and Matthew Davies, was found guilty of animal cruelty in Southampton. Born on September 11, 1986, Coffin, who as of 2022 resided on Ennerdale Road in Redbridge, was involved in a heinous act of abuse against a defenseless cat named Daisy.

The incident took place at Coffin's then residence on Vanguard Road, located in the Townhill Park area of Southampton. He was at the time with his girlfriend, Emma Davies, when the abuse was first observed by visiting friends. The following day, these friends returned and witnessed even more distressing treatment of the animal. Deeply disturbed by what they saw, they recorded the abuse on their mobile phones and promptly contacted the RSPCA to report the incident.

The footage captured by the friends showed Coffin grinning as he grabbed Daisy by her tail and swung her around like a yo-yo. The video also depicted him bouncing the cat while sitting on a sofa with Emma Davies, who did not intervene or attempt to stop the cruelty. The footage was presented in court, where prosecutor Sarah Wheadon explained that a veterinarian had confirmed the suffering inflicted on Daisy was both real and unnecessary. The vet stated that the period during which Daisy was bounced and swung by her tail caused her pain, and if such behavior had continued, it could have resulted in serious injury.

The court heard that both Daisy and another cat named Charlie were quickly removed from Coffin’s care following the incident. Coffin pleaded guilty to two counts of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. During mitigation, it was revealed that Coffin, who was unemployed at the time, acknowledged that his actions were wrong and expressed remorse. Additionally, he was undergoing mental health assessments for recent episodes of depression and blackouts.

Fortunately, Daisy did not suffer any long-term physical damage from the abuse. Veterinarians examined her with X-rays, which showed no lasting injuries. Inspector Penny Baker of the RSPCA, who was involved in removing the cats along with police officers, welcomed the court’s decision. She described the video evidence as clear and disturbing, noting that Coffin had pulled Daisy’s tail multiple times, claiming he was trying to acclimate her to being handled because his young nephew was coming to stay. Inspector Baker emphasized that such behavior was heartless and that Coffin’s repeated actions demonstrated a deliberate cruelty.

The inspector also highlighted that Daisy was initially very timid but had become more friendly since being in their care. She warned that had the abuse continued as Daisy grew larger, she could have sustained serious injuries. The court sentenced Coffin to a 12-month community order, including 150 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, he was banned from owning any animals for ten years, with the ban set to expire in January 2024.

This case underscores the importance of animal welfare and the serious consequences of cruelty. The community and animal rights advocates hope that justice serves as a reminder that such acts of violence against animals are unacceptable and will be met with strict penalties.