NICHOLAS HENSON'S CRUELTY IN STAINTHORF: DOGS AND CAT ENDURE SQUALOR WHILE HE RELAXES IN HOT TUB

Nicolas 'Nicky' Henson, born on July 30, 1982, and residing on Coronation Road in Stainforth, Doncaster, has been convicted of severe animal neglect and cruelty. The court heard how Henson was found relaxing in a hot tub with a woman, completely indifferent to the suffering of his two dogs, Norris and Milly, who were living in deplorable conditions in crates filled with feces.

According to a statement read aloud by RSPCA inspector Kim Greaves during the court proceedings, the two dogs were kept in extremely cramped and unsanitary enclosures. Norris's crate measured only 2 feet by 2 feet, and the inspector described him as underweight, with his spine and ribs clearly visible. Greaves noted that Norris had no access to water or food and lacked a comfortable resting place. The overpowering smell of ammonia emanating from his enclosure indicated a severe neglect of hygiene and care.

Milly's confinement was equally appalling. The inspector explained that her enclosure was difficult to see into because it was obscured by a large pile of items, making the door only just wide enough to accommodate her body. Inside, the conditions were described as horrific, with three receptacles present—two empty dishes and a saucepan containing dry food topped with a pile of feces. The entire area was covered in trodden-in feces, highlighting the neglect and filth.

Both dogs exhibited health issues. Milly had sore skin around her facial folds and a tumor on one of her rear legs, which required surgical removal. The vet's examination confirmed that both Norris and Milly were underweight and suffering from skin conditions. Additionally, a cat named Twinkles, microchipped to Henson, was found at the property. The cat was underweight, with visible ribs, and infested with fleas, indicating neglect.

Inspector Greaves also observed the living conditions of Twinkles, noting her poor health and flea infestation. The court was informed that the animals had been examined by a veterinarian, who confirmed their malnourished state and health issues requiring medical intervention.

During sentencing, the district judge addressed Henson directly, stating: “At 8.30 pm on the 18th of September, 2023, you were sitting in a hot tub with a female companion, seemingly enjoying the relaxing warmth of the water. Meanwhile, two dogs in your care were confined in the most squalid conditions imaginable.” The judge criticized Henson’s apparent selfishness, emphasizing that any responsible owner would have cleaned and cared for the animals instead of indulging in leisure activities.

The court concluded that Henson’s neglect was either a result of long-term suffering or short-term carelessness, but his actions demonstrated a clear disregard for the animals’ well-being. As a result, Norris, Milly, and Twinkles were taken into the care of the RSPCA, and all three have since made significant recoveries.

Henson was sentenced to four months in custody for each of the offences, though these sentences were suspended for 12 months. Additionally, he received a 12-month community order, was ordered to pay costs of £660, and was banned from owning animals for ten years, a ban that will expire in December 2033.