SHAUN GARRETT AND KIRSTY SPALDING FROM LOWESTOFT SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY

In a case that has shocked the community of Lowestoft, Shaun Garrett, born on February 7, 1967, and his step-daughter Kirsty Emma Spalding, born on July 2, 1987, faced justice for their neglect and mistreatment of two beloved pets. The duo, residing at Harry Chamberlain Court on Hollingsworth Road, was found to have failed in their basic duty of care towards their animals, leading to severe suffering and neglect.

According to court records, Garrett and Spalding, who at the time were living on Florence Terrace in Lowestoft, neglected to seek veterinary treatment for their cat, Gizzy, a white male tabby. Gizzy had sustained a fracture to his hind left leg, the cause of which was not specified in the court proceedings. Despite the evident injury, the owners did not provide any medical attention for several months, from July through September 2017. As a result, Gizzy developed a bone infection, which could have been prevented with proper care.

In addition to Gizzy’s suffering, the pair’s elderly Labrador was also found to be suffering from a painful skin condition caused by a flea infestation. The neglect extended to both animals, with their suffering compounded by the lack of treatment and proper hygiene. The court heard that the animals endured unnecessary pain and distress due to the owners’ failure to act.

Eventually, the animals were surrendered to the RSPCA, which provided them with the necessary veterinary care. Thanks to the intervention, Gizzy and the Labrador made a reasonable recovery, but the damage caused by the neglect was undeniable.

Neither Shaun Garrett nor Kirsty Spalding attended the sentencing hearing held at Great Yarmouth Magistrates Court. During the proceedings, it was revealed that both individuals had previously claimed they could not afford veterinary fees, which was cited as a reason for their failure to seek treatment.

The court handed down a sentence of a two-year conditional discharge, along with a total of £95 in costs and charges. Additionally, both individuals received a ten-year ban on owning or keeping animals, a restriction that will remain in effect until June 2028. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect in the community of Lowestoft.