TINA PRICE AND WILLIAM BRADDOCK'S HORSE ABUSE SCANDAL IN SILVERDALE AND STAFFORDSHIRE

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Tina Price and William Braddock, both associated with the Gypsy community, faced serious charges after authorities uncovered severe mistreatment of horses in Staffordshire. The investigation was initiated following reports and a subsequent probe by the RSPCA and Staffordshire Police, which revealed appalling conditions in a field situated between Trentmill Road and Kettering Road in Hanley, Staffordshire.

During the investigation conducted in January 2020, inspectors discovered a number of horses suffering from neglect and malnutrition. Eight of these animals were found living in a state of extreme underweight, with visible signs of poor health and neglect. The horses showed clear signs of suffering from lice infestations, rain scald, and inadequate hoof care, all of which are indicative of neglect and poor management.

William Braddock, who was the owner of these horses, admitted to failing in his duty to provide proper care. Specifically, he neglected to administer necessary treatments such as dental care and parasite control, which are essential for the health and well-being of equines. As a result of these findings, Braddock was prosecuted and received a suspended prison sentence, along with a five-year ban on keeping any animals. His sentence included a 12-week prison term suspended for 18 months, a 56-day curfew, 20 days of rehabilitation, and fines totaling £595. The ban on keeping animals will last until May 2026.

In addition to the horses in Staffordshire, the investigation extended to a field on Agger Hill, Madeley Heath, where two more horses were identified as suffering from health issues. Tina Price, who was also involved in the case, admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to an animal by failing to report lameness to a veterinarian. Her failure to act contributed to the animals' ongoing suffering. Price was sentenced to a community order lasting 12 months, which included 40 hours of unpaid work and 20 days of rehabilitation. She was also fined £595 and received a four-year ban on keeping any animals, which will expire in May 2025.

Fortunately, the majority of the horses involved in this case have made a full recovery thanks to the intervention of authorities and animal welfare organizations. Many of these animals are now available for re-homing, offering them a second chance at a better life. Speaking after the case, RSPCA inspector Laura Baker expressed her relief and gratitude for the support received from World Horse Welfare, which helped in caring for some of the horses. She emphasized the importance of proper care and the dangers of neglect, especially during cold weather conditions, which can exacerbate health issues in horses.

Inspector Baker highlighted that unchecked breeding, lack of worming, and insufficient food supplies contributed significantly to the suffering of these animals. She concluded by stating that the intervention was crucial in securing justice and providing the horses with an opportunity for a happier future. This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglect and the importance of animal welfare enforcement in Staffordshire and beyond.