TONY COLLINGWOOD AND CHANTELLE FITZPATRICK'S HORRIFIC CRUELTY IN BARROW-IN-FURNESS AND BURNLEY

Tony Collingwood, born around 1999, and Chantelle Lily Fitzpatrick, born on December 6, 1995, both of Egerton Court, Barrow-in-Furness, were convicted in 2024 for a disturbing series of acts of cruelty towards three dogs. Their actions, which spanned across different locations, revealed a blatant disregard for animal welfare and resulted in severe suffering for the animals involved.

Initially residing at Coal Clough Lane in Burnley, the couple admitted to charges of cruelty related to their three dogs named Patch, Luna, and Star. The investigation uncovered that Collingwood and Fitzpatrick failed to address the deteriorating health conditions of their Staffordshire bull terrier, Patch, who was suffering from an ear infection and wounds. Despite evident signs of neglect, they did not seek veterinary care or attempt to improve his poor bodily condition, which included significant weight loss and visible scars.

Similarly, their treatment of Luna, a lurcher-type dog, and Star, a small terrier, was equally neglectful. The pair did not provide a suitable environment for these animals, neglecting basic needs such as proper diet, fresh water, flea control, and adequate supervision. The dogs were kept in conditions that were clearly unsuitable, with the environment lacking cleanliness and proper care.

In August 2022, the RSPCA conducted multiple visits to the property in Burnley following reports of dogs living in deplorable conditions and being left unattended. Animal Rescue Officer Kelly Nix described the scene in her witness statement, noting that the interior of the house was filthy. She observed a small tan dog appearing very distressed, and she had to feed the dogs through the letterbox because they were confined inside. The letterbox was also used to test whether the dogs had been abandoned, as seals placed on the doors remained intact, indicating no recent access to check on their welfare.

On August 22, Inspector Lyndsey Taylor returned to the property and was alarmed to find one of the dogs, later identified as Patch, appearing extremely weak, lethargic, and reluctant to stand, though his tail was still wagging. Concerned for his health, she consulted a veterinarian who confirmed that the dog was suffering. The police and Animal Rescue Officer Nix were called to intervene.

All three dogs were seized due to serious concerns about their welfare. Patch, a tan and white Staffordshire bull terrier, was found emaciated, with ribs, spine, and hips clearly visible, and his skull appeared sunken. He was covered in scars, some fresh, and fleas were crawling on his body. Luna, the lurcher, was in relatively better condition but had lost fur around her back end and was infested with fleas. Star, the small terrier, was extremely nervous and also crawling with fleas. Neighbors reported that Star had never been outside the house or in the garden, highlighting the extent of neglect.

Rescue teams had to use food and Luna to coax her out of the house, as she was terrified and froze upon exiting. Inspector Nix described her reaction, stating that she became so stressed that she attempted to bite both Inspector Taylor and Patch. The interior of the house was in a deplorable state, with a strong smell of urine and faeces, and the floor was covered in rubbish and broken glass. There were no visible food or water bowls, and no food was found inside the property. Tablets and exposed wiring were scattered on the floors and tables, posing additional hazards to the dogs.

Following their rescue, the dogs were taken to the RSPCA Greater Manchester Animal Hospital for urgent veterinary treatment. All three were extremely hungry and dehydrated. Patch received treatment via drip for fleas, wounds, and an ear infection. Luna was underweight, with fur loss, fleas, and cuts, while Star had cuts on his chest and chin.

Chantelle Fitzpatrick later contacted the RSPCA, claiming she had moved to a new property two to three weeks prior and was preparing to relocate the dogs there. She expressed regret over her actions and insisted she cared for her animals. During court proceedings, Fitzpatrick explained that she had experienced health problems and that the couple had been forced out of their previous home by drug dealers.

All three dogs were subsequently taken in by the RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield, Bradford & District Branch, where they received rehabilitation and were eventually rehomed. The RSPCA reported that the dogs are now doing well and are in good health.

In sentencing, the court took into account the guilty pleas of Collingwood and Fitzpatrick. They were each fined £40 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £114. Additionally, they received a ban from owning any animals for ten years, although they have the right to appeal after five years, with the ban set to expire in September 2034.