VERNON WEST FROM THURNCOURT SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOG IN LEICESTER

Vernon Scot West, a resident of Thurncourt, Leicester, has been convicted of severe animal cruelty involving his dog, Star, a brown/brindle crossbreed. The disturbing case came to light after concerns about Star’s welfare were raised by a member of the public who had purchased her from West. The individual took the dog to Leicester PDSA Pet Hospital, prompting an investigation into her condition.

Star was found to be in a dire state. Veterinary examinations revealed her to be extremely underweight, weighing only 17.9 kilograms, with her ribs and bones prominently visible due to severe malnutrition. The dog’s head showed signs of swelling and wounds, which indicated she had suffered blows, including a fractured skull and injuries to her zygomatic arch, caused by blunt force trauma. The swelling contained blood cells, confirming recent injury. Despite her emaciated condition, Star did not exhibit mobility issues, although her nails were overgrown, a sign of neglect and lack of exercise.

Further tests showed that Star was mildly dehydrated, necessitating two days of intravenous fluids, along with pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication. Her condition improved after being placed on a specialized feeding plan, and she received routine treatments for fleas and worms. The swift intervention by the veterinary team helped her begin the recovery process.

Following the concerns raised, Leicestershire Police alerted the RSPCA, which launched a thorough investigation into the case. Vernon West was subsequently charged with multiple offences under the Animal Welfare Act. In November 2024, West appeared at Leicester Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to four charges, including inflicting blunt force trauma that resulted in a fractured skull.

The gravity of his actions led to the case being transferred to Leicester Crown Court for sentencing. The judge described West’s treatment of Star as “absolutely appalling,” emphasizing the severity of her injuries and neglect. The court heard that when Star was taken away from West, she weighed just 17.9kg, a stark contrast to her weight after treatment, which exceeded 23kg. The judge highlighted that her injuries were not merely due to neglect but involved physical assault, with evidence of fractures to her skull and facial bones.

As a result of his conviction, West was sentenced to 10 months in prison. Additionally, he received a lifetime ban on owning or caring for any animals, a measure intended to prevent future cruelty. The judge condemned his actions, stating that the treatment of Star was “absolutely appalling,” and underscored the importance of responsible pet ownership.

Following the sentencing, RSPCA Chief Inspector Sarah Bate issued a statement condemning animal cruelty. She emphasized that owning an animal is a privilege and that pet owners have a legal obligation to ensure their animals do not suffer. Inspector Bate reaffirmed the RSPCA’s commitment to investigating reports of cruelty and seeking justice for animals subjected to abuse, such as Star in this case.