SARAH MEREDITH FROM BIRKENHEAD SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC ANIMAL ABUSE INVOLVING DOGS IN LIVERPOOL AND BIRKENHEAD

Sarah Joanne Meredith, a woman born around 1979 and most recently residing on Upper Brassey Street in Birkenhead, has been convicted of heinous animal cruelty offenses. Although she is now reported to have no fixed address, her past residence in Birkenhead is well documented. The case involves disturbing allegations of her performing sexual acts on a dog, with witnesses and video evidence capturing the shocking incident.

According to court reports, Meredith claimed she was coerced into abusing a dog—a Patterdale terrier—by a group of unidentified men. These men, described by the judge as 'grotesque,' allegedly threatened her with violence and forced her into the act. Meredith recounted to police that she was walking the dog, which belonged to Philip Thomas, a man who suffers from mobility issues. She told authorities that during the walk, she was approached by two men whose identities she refused to disclose. These men spat on her and threatened her, compelling her to perform the sexual act on the dog.

The police investigation was triggered after a video of the incident was circulated. The footage was sent to the dog's owner, Philip Thomas, who then contacted the authorities. When police arrived at his residence, he showed them the video, which depicted Meredith holding the dog underneath its front legs while being egged on by the men. A second video showed Meredith engaging in a different sexual act with the animal. Both videos contained audio of people laughing, who do not appear in the footage, adding to the disturbing nature of the recordings.

During her interview with police, Meredith expressed remorse, stating she was ashamed and disgusted with herself. She also revealed that she was unaware she was being filmed. She admitted that two males threatened her and spat on her, which she described as a frightening experience. The dog was subsequently seized and examined by a veterinarian, who confirmed that it did not sustain any physical injuries. However, the vet noted signs of distress during the examination, indicating the animal's emotional suffering.

Meredith's criminal record was described as 'lengthy,' highlighting her history of previous offenses. She pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, a serious charge reflecting the gravity of her actions. The court heard that her mental health issues and ongoing struggles with drug addiction, particularly heroin, have significantly impacted her life. District Judge James Hatton acknowledged her vulnerabilities and the traumatic experiences she endured, which he believed contributed to her current situation.

In sentencing, Judge Hatton condemned the treatment of the dog, stating, 'That animal was treated appallingly.' While recognizing that the offense warranted a custodial sentence, the judge also emphasized Meredith's vulnerability and the fact that she was victimized by the 'grotesque' men who have yet to face justice. He described her as a victim herself, having been subjected to abuse in a sickening manner.

As part of her sentence, Meredith received a 16-week prison term, suspended for 18 months. She was also ordered to complete 30 Rehabilitation Activity Requirements, pay costs and charges totaling £213, and was banned from keeping animals for five years, with the ban set to expire in September 2025.

In a related case, Philip Thomas faced charges for possession and distribution of the videos depicting Meredith abusing his dog. In October 2020, he received a suspended prison sentence and was ordered to undertake a Rehabilitation Activity Requirement. The case underscores the disturbing nature of the abuse and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to address such heinous crimes in the Liverpool and Birkenhead areas.