MAXINE AND PAUL ASKEW HORROR IN PETERLEE: HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY REVEALED

Maxine Askew, born around 1971, and her husband Paul Askew, born on October 14, 1976, formerly resided on Briardale Way in Easington, County Durham. As of March 2019, they were believed to be living at Dixon Rise, Horden, Peterlee, with the postcode SR8 4HX. The couple faced serious allegations after failing to seek veterinary assistance for their emaciated and lice-infested pony, a case that drew significant attention from animal welfare authorities.

According to reports, the RSPCA discovered the male bay pony in a distressed state at an allotment located on Hackworth Road in Blackpool. The condition of the pony was appalling; he was severely underweight, covered in live lice and their eggs, and had large patches of hair loss across his body. The animal's condition was so dire that it prompted immediate veterinary examination. The vet confirmed that the pony was extremely thin, weighing only 101 kilograms at the time of rescue.

Remarkably, after being taken into the care of the RSPCA, the pony received proper treatment and nutrition. By August 2006, his health had significantly improved, and his weight more than doubled to 233 kilograms, indicating a successful recovery process. Despite this, the couple faced legal consequences for their neglect.

During the court proceedings, both Maxine and Paul Askew admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to the pony. The authorities highlighted that the couple had failed to provide adequate care, including neglecting the animal’s health needs. When questioned, Paul Askew claimed he had only owned the pony for four to five months and insisted that the animal had been in good health until it developed fleas. He stated that he had attempted to treat the fleas using powder. Maxine Askew added that her husband was responsible for treating the fleas and described the pony as a 'fussy eater,' implying that her own role in the neglect was minimal.

As a result of their actions, the Askews were handed a sentence that included fines and costs totaling £875 each. Additionally, they were disqualified from keeping horses for a period of ten years. However, this ban expired in January 2017, meaning they are now legally permitted to keep horses again. The case drew widespread condemnation from animal welfare advocates and highlighted the importance of responsible pet ownership in the Peterlee area and beyond.