Shocking photographs have been released by the RSPCA, revealing the horrific conditions inside a Wolverhampton property where five dead dogs were discovered and four others were found starving.
Grim Discovery in Spring Road
Joshua Johnson, aged 28, of Spring Road, Wolverhampton, has been disqualified from keeping animals indefinitely after pleading guilty to serious animal welfare offences. Inspectors from the RSPCA and police officers conducted a search of his property on June 7, 2023.
During the inspection, Johnson initially attempted to deceive officials by posing as someone else before finally admitting he was the occupant. While four emaciated but living dogs were rescued from the address, the search took a darker turn as officers explored further.
A Scene of Squalor and Suffering
The bodies of five dead dogs were found in various locations throughout the property, with three of the carcasses being severely decomposed. The RSPCA's released images depict a scene of utter squalor, with a cluttered garage containing a dog cage, structures in disrepair, and floors encrusted with dog mess.
No food or water was available for the animals, who were forced to endure inadequate bedding and appalling living conditions. One dog, a Cane Corso named Panther, was described by rescuers as a 'walking skeleton'.
Court Sentencing and Lifetime Ban
At Birmingham Crown Court on November 17, Johnson pleaded guilty to two counts of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal. He was sentenced to two years in prison, suspended for 21 months.
In his defence, Johnson blamed his neglect of the animals on turning to drink and drugs following the death of his father and grandfather, as well as his own mental health problems. Despite these mitigating circumstances, the court imposed an indefinite disqualification from keeping animals.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the legal consequences of such severe neglect.
