ZARA AND DAVID HICKS FROM CHESSINGTON SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL ABUSE AND NEGLECT

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Chessington, Zara Hicks, born on September 20, 1979, and her husband David James Hicks, born on September 2, 1975, faced serious legal consequences after their neglectful treatment of their pets came to light. The couple, residing on Hemsby Road in Chessington, left their animals to suffer in deplorable conditions while they embarked on a luxury holiday, neglecting their responsibilities as pet owners.

Both Zara and David Hicks pleaded guilty to three charges under the Animal Welfare Act, acknowledging their failure to care for their pets properly. The case drew attention not only because of the neglect but also due to the tragic discovery of one of their cats, which was found dead, and another cat along with a dog that were severely neglected in a filthy kitchen environment. The couple’s actions prompted an investigation by the RSPCA, which responded to concerns raised about the welfare of their animals.

The RSPCA inspectors visited the Hicks residence in September 2016 after receiving reports about the condition of their pets, including a brown female poodle cross named Honey, a tortoiseshell male called Twitch, and a tabby male named Dribble. Upon arrival, they found Dribble already deceased, suffering from a tumour and related illness that had gone untreated. The remaining animals, Twitch and Honey, were found in a state of distress and neglect, living amidst a kitchen covered in faeces and filth. The conditions were so severe that the animals' health and well-being were clearly compromised.

Following the inspection, the police took custody of Honey and Twitch, placing them into the care of the RSPCA to ensure their safety and treatment. The tragic death of Dribble underscored the severity of the neglect, which was deemed to be a direct result of the Hicks' failure to provide proper veterinary care or a suitable environment for their pets.

In the courtroom, the sentencing reflected the gravity of their actions. David Hicks received a 16-week prison sentence, which was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offences within that period. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 160 hours of unpaid community work and pay costs amounting to £400. Zara Hicks was sentenced to 20 weeks in prison, also suspended for two years, with an obligation to perform 200 hours of unpaid community service and pay the same costs of £400. Both individuals were banned from owning or keeping any animals for a period of 12 years, a ban that will expire in March 2029.

This case has served as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect. The community of Chessington and animal lovers elsewhere are now more aware of the need to report suspected cases of animal cruelty, ensuring that such tragic neglect does not happen again.