STEPHEN ATTERBURY AND EMMA RICHARDSON FROM CHAPELTOWN LEEDS SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO ROTTWEILER TYSON

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Stephen Atterbury, born on 29 July 1966, and Emma Richardson, born on 29 July 1980, both residents of 14 Sholebroke Street in Chapeltown, Leeds LS7 3HT, have been convicted of severe welfare offences involving their pet Rottweiler, Tyson. The case highlights the ongoing issues of animal cruelty and the responsibilities of pet owners to ensure proper care and treatment.

Authorities from the RSPCA intervened after receiving multiple reports of concern regarding Tyson’s condition. The organization conducted several visits to the couple’s residence, during which they could hear a dog but were unable to see him. Despite leaving advisory notices that provided guidance on proper animal care, Atterbury and Richardson failed to respond or take any corrective action. The situation remained unresolved until an RSPCA officer managed to speak with the pair in April 2021.

During this initial conversation, the couple was hesitant to allow the officer to see Tyson. However, Atterbury eventually admitted that the dog was underweight, describing Tyson as “skinny,” but claimed that he was eating and toileting normally. The officer was permitted to examine Tyson and immediately expressed grave concern over his physical condition. Tyson was described as “obviously underweight,” with ribs, spine, hips, and stomach visibly sunken. His back legs appeared muscle-wasted, and the top of his head was sunken on either side, giving it a pointed appearance. Despite these signs of neglect, Atterbury and Richardson insisted that Tyson’s health was fine and refused the RSPCA’s offer to take him to a veterinarian for further assessment.

Following this, the couple was issued a welfare notice instructing them to have Tyson examined by a vet. Unfortunately, this directive was ignored, and Tyson’s condition continued to decline. The situation escalated when, on 1 May 2021, an RSPCA inspector, accompanied by a West Yorkshire Police officer, returned to the property. This time, Tyson was found to be in a much worse state—“very thin,” with a gaunt face and dried faeces covering his back. Recognizing the severity of his condition, the officer removed Tyson from the home and placed him into the care of the RSPCA.

Tyson was taken to a veterinary clinic, where he was diagnosed with emaciation and significant muscle wastage across his head, body, and limbs. The vet also observed signs of diarrhoea, indicating ongoing health issues. The veterinarian stated that Tyson’s suffering could have been easily prevented if the owners had sought veterinary treatment or provided appropriate nutrition. The professional opinion was clear: Tyson’s condition was a direct result of neglect and lack of proper care.

Following intensive treatment and a carefully managed feeding plan, Tyson made a full recovery. After nearly a year in RSPCA custody, he was deemed suitable for rehoming. The case against Atterbury and Richardson culminated in their being found guilty of animal welfare offences. They received a sentence of 12 weeks in custody, suspended for 12 months, along with requirements for rehabilitation. Additionally, they were ordered to pay costs of £172.00 and a victim surcharge of £128 each. Both individuals were also banned from owning any animals indefinitely, a measure intended to prevent future neglect.

This case underscores the importance of responsible pet ownership and the vigilance required to protect vulnerable animals from cruelty and neglect. The community and authorities continue to work together to ensure that such cases are identified early and addressed appropriately, safeguarding the welfare of animals like Tyson in Leeds and beyond.