SUSAN MAUDE SHAMES ANIMALS IN NORMANTON AND WIRRAL

In a disturbing case that has shocked animal welfare advocates, Susan Maude, born on August 8, 1953, has been found guilty of heinous acts involving the abandonment and mistreatment of multiple animals. Originally from Wirral, Merseyside, Maude later resided at Bridge Street, Normanton, WF6 2ES, where her actions came to light.

According to reports, Maude was responsible for the cruel disposal of five kittens and three adult cats, which she abandoned inside a zipped-up laundry bag. Additionally, she left a dog, named Rusty, in a similarly neglectful manner. CCTV footage captured Maude leaving her residence in Tranmere, Wirral, around midnight, carrying the laundry bag, and returning shortly afterward without the animals. The footage provided crucial evidence linking her to the act of abandonment.

The following day, the same laundry bag was discovered on land off Southwick Road, Tranmere. Inside the bag, rescuers found five kittens along with adult cats named Polly, Dolly, and Dylan. The animals were in a deplorable state, covered in faeces and urine, and appeared to be suffering from significant stress and exhaustion. The discovery prompted immediate concern for their welfare and led to further investigation.

The RSPCA, the leading animal welfare organization, took charge of the case. They charged Maude with failing to provide a suitable environment for the animals, including the kittens and the dog Rusty. The charges also included neglecting to protect the animals from pain, suffering, injury, or disease by dumping them in such a manner. The case was brought before Birkenhead Magistrates’ Court, where Maude was prosecuted for her actions.

However, Maude did not attend the court proceedings. Despite her absence, the court found her guilty in her absence, recognizing the severity of her actions. A warrant was subsequently issued for her arrest to facilitate her sentencing.

Inspector Anthony Joynes of the Wirral RSPCA expressed his outrage, stating, “If they had not been found when they were, we could easily have been dealing with a bag full of dead animals. The eight cats and kittens were covered in faeces and urine and were suffering with stress and exhaustion when they were discovered. They were dumped without any regard at all for their welfare in a place where they were unlikely to be found. This is completely unacceptable — on every level.”

In terms of sentencing, Maude received a 12-month community order, was ordered to pay £500 in costs, and was banned from keeping animals for ten years, a ban that will expire in March 2026. The case highlights the ongoing issues of animal cruelty and neglect, and the importance of vigilant enforcement by authorities to protect vulnerable creatures from such inhumane treatment.