SELINA DARCY FROM GARSTON SENTENCED AFTER LEAVING DOG TO STARVE TO DEATH IN ABANDONED PROPERTY

Selina Darcy, born on January 31, 1982, and residing on Island Road in Garston, Liverpool L19 6PA, became the focus of a tragic animal cruelty case after she abandoned her pet dog, Woody, leading to the animal's agonizing death from starvation and neglect.

On January 15, 2024, Merseyside Police contacted RSPCA Inspector Anthony Joynes following a disturbing discovery made by local council officers. They had entered Darcy’s vacated rental property and found the lifeless body of Woody, a bulldog, in a deplorable state. The inspector’s detailed account paints a grim picture of the scene: the entire property was in a state of extreme filth, with walls and floors covered in faeces, discarded takeaway packaging, dirty clothes, and an overwhelming stench of urine and faeces that was so potent it caused eye irritation.

Inspector Joynes described the scene as heartbreaking, emphasizing the suffering endured by Woody. The dog was found lying on a mattress on the floor, in a condition that reflected prolonged neglect. According to his witness statement, Woody was severely emaciated, with very little fat or muscle tissue remaining, and his skeletal bones were clearly visible beneath his skin. The inspector noted the presence of several small, empty dog food boxes scattered around, indicating that Woody had been without food or water for an extended period. His eyes, although intact, were sunken, and his claws were overgrown and pointed. The rear end of the dog was wet and dirty, with signs of diarrhoea, suggesting he had been suffering in silence for some time.

During questioning, Darcy admitted to Inspector Joynes that she had not been at her residence for approximately three months. She claimed to have allowed someone else to stay there during her absence but refused to provide any details about this individual. Darcy expressed remorse, stating, “I buried my head and had not got back in touch with them. I hold my hands up, it’s half my fault. I left him with someone but I can’t give their details.”

Following the investigation and subsequent court proceedings, Inspector Joynes reflected on the case’s emotional toll. He described it as one of the most difficult cases he had encountered, highlighting the tragic circumstances that led to Woody’s death. He emphasized the importance of pet owners seeking help if they are struggling to care for their animals, urging the public to reach out to vets, rescue organizations, and animal welfare charities for support. The inspector underscored that neglect and abandonment have severe consequences and that animals like Woody suffer immensely when left in such conditions.

In court, Darcy was sentenced to a 19-week prison term, which was suspended for 12 months. She was also ordered to complete 20 days of rehabilitation, including alcohol treatment, and pay a victim surcharge of £154. Additionally, she was disqualified from owning or keeping any animals for a period of seven years, a ban set to expire in November 2031. The case has served as a stark reminder of the cruelty that can occur behind closed doors and the vital role of animal welfare authorities in protecting vulnerable pets from neglect and abuse.