RSPCA CONVICTS STEPHEN LOCKHAM AND BRENDA SCARAH IN HULL FOR ANIMAL NEGLECT AND STARVATION

Stephen Lockham, born on July 24, 1963, residing at 39 34th Avenue, Hull HU6 9QU, and Brenda Scarah, born December 19, 1961, of Appleton Road, Hull HU5 4PE, have been convicted in 2025 for the starvation and neglect of their three dogs, which were infested with fleas.

The investigation revealed that Lockham and Scarah failed to provide adequate nutrition for a young lurcher-type dog named Storm, who was discovered emaciated, covered in urine, and in poor condition. Two other dogs, Socks, a 15-year-old Pomeranian cross suffering from untreated severe flea allergies, and Troy, a Jack Russell terrier also affected by fleas, were found with neglected conditions and untreated ailments.

Both defendants pleaded guilty to charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 after the RSPCA conducted an investigation. The court heard that a dog warden visited Scarah’s home on March 5, 2024, and observed Storm confined in a dirty crate within the bedroom. The dog’s ribs, spine, and hips were clearly visible, with fur stained by urine and sores present on his back.

An RSPCA officer was called to the scene, and Storm was seized by police due to concerns about his welfare. Lockham subsequently signed Storm over to the charity. The court also noted that 15-year-old Socks's living conditions had been addressed via warning notices, and he had been examined by a PDSA veterinarian.

Storm was initially taken to a private boarding facility, where he weighed 14.3 kg (31.52 pounds). After receiving care, his weight increased to 19.4 kg (42.76 pounds) within ten days. A veterinarian described Storm’s condition in court: "He was clinically emaciated with a body condition score of 1/9, with all bony prominences visible and significant muscle loss. He had a strong smell of stale urine and faeces, with dried urine on his limbs and side. The dog exhibited flea dirt and live fleas, along with saliva stains indicating self-licking due to irritation."

The veterinarian added that Storm’s suffering likely lasted at least four weeks, and possibly longer at a low level, for several months. Welfare checks on Socks and Troy revealed untreated flea allergies, resulting in scabbing and hair loss. On September 18, the couple received another warning from the RSPCA, instructing them to seek veterinary treatment; however, they failed to comply, leading to Socks and Troy being seized.

Both additional dogs were found with severe flea allergies that had gone untreated, resulting in skin damage and hair loss. The court heard that Lockham, who lived separately but visited regularly, was aware of the dogs’ poor health. He was described as suffering from "poor mental health" and demonstrated remorse, having taken one dog to the vet despite being unable to afford treatment, and being aware of the issues after that visit.

Scarah’s neglect was characterized as “well-intentioned but incompetent care.” She was overwhelmed by personal issues at the time and had no prior convictions. She was dealing with medical conditions including arthritis, sciatica, and depression, which prevented her from completing a community order.

Storm has made a full recovery and was adopted by the RSPCA’s Warrington, Halton & St Helens branch. Troy was also rehomed after his care by the Hull & East Riding branch. Sadly, Socks’s health deteriorated, and he was euthanized based on veterinary advice with Scarah’s consent.

RSPCA inspector Natalie Hill, who led the investigation, emphasized the importance of basics in pet care: “This case highlights how important it is to make sure you are getting the basics right. This includes giving pets the correct food portions and regular preventative treatment for issues like worms and fleas. Things can easily get out of hand, so seeking timely advice from your vet is crucial for maintaining your pet’s health and happiness. I’m pleased Storm and Troy have been adopted into loving homes, and I want to thank everyone who helped in this investigation.”

Regarding sentencing, Lockham received a 12-month community order, including 15 days of rehabilitation activities, a fine of £40, and ordered to pay £200 in costs along with a £114 victim surcharge. Scarah was fined £200, with costs of £200 and an £80 victim surcharge. Both individuals are prohibited from keeping dogs for ten years, a ban set to expire in March 2035.