NELSON LUKE AND SHONA THOMAS-ROSS FROM EALING SENTENCED FOR DOG STARVATION CRIME

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Ealing, London, Nelson Pierre Luke, born on March 3, 1992, and Shona Jayda Patricia Thomas-Ross, born on January 17, 1998, both residents of Northfield Avenue, Northfields, faced justice for the tragic death of their pet dog. The incident drew significant attention after the dog, a Bull terrier named Casanova, was brought into a veterinary clinic in Victoria in a severely emaciated state, weighing only 11.85 kilograms. This was alarmingly below the typical weight range for the breed, which is usually between 25 and 30 kilograms.

According to reports, the owners claimed that they returned home to find Casanova had already passed away. They stated that the dog had been unwell prior to her death but insisted that they were unable to seek veterinary assistance at the time because they had no credit on their phones to make a call. However, veterinary examinations painted a grim picture of neglect and suffering. Veterinarians discovered that Casanova’s intestines were completely empty, indicating prolonged starvation or inability to eat. The dog’s body was also covered in sores and faeces, highlighting the extent of her suffering.

Following the discovery, veterinarians contacted the RSPCA, prompting Inspector Phil Norman to initiate a thorough investigation into the case. The veterinary report emphasized that Casanova had been suffering from a prolonged period of anorexia or an inability to retain food, which could have been easily prevented had the owners sought prompt medical attention. The veterinarian’s statement underscored the tragic neglect, stating, “[Casanova] was suffering from a prolonged period of anorexia or not being able to keep her food down. All of this suffering could have been prevented by bringing her to a veterinary practice for medical attention.”

Nelson Luke, who was also known as a convicted drug dealer, pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to Casanova. His co-accused, Shona Thomas-Ross, initially entered a plea of not guilty but was ultimately convicted of the same offence after a trial. The court proceedings resulted in separate sentencing for both individuals.

Nelson Luke received a 16-week prison sentence, which was suspended for 18 months, along with 15 days of rehabilitation, 250 hours of unpaid community work, and ordered to pay £300 in costs and a £187 victim surcharge. Meanwhile, Shona Thomas-Ross was given a 12-month community order, including 20 days of rehabilitation, a fine of £100, a £114 victim surcharge, and £300 in costs. Both offenders are also disqualified from owning or keeping dogs for a period of 10 years, a ban that will expire in December 2034.

This case has once again highlighted the importance of responsible pet ownership and the severe consequences of neglect and cruelty. The community of Ealing and animal welfare organizations continue to advocate for greater awareness and stricter enforcement of animal protection laws to prevent such tragedies from recurring.