Peterlee Magistrates' Court Sentencing Results

James Murphy was spotted using his mobile phone while driving a BMW on the A1(M) near Newton Aycliffe on July 1, 2024. He was found guilty, and due to his prior driving offences, this led to his sentencing.

David Willis and Gemma Olds failed to meet the needs of five cats, two dogs, and a Burmese python at their home in Fairy Street, Hetton-le-Hole. The animals were found living amongst clutter and rubbish with no access to water, in a chaotic and unhygienic environment. RSPCA inspectors discovered the house was littered with personal belongings, beer cans, and rubbish, with internal doors off their hinges. The animals were seized and taken to a veterinary practice where they were found to be thirsty and hungry; one cat was emaciated and had suffered unnecessarily for at least one week. The snake was cold and lacked adequate water and a suitable environment.

Gemma Olds and David Willis failed to meet the needs of five cats, two dogs, and a Burmese python at their home in Fairy Street, Hetton-le-Hole. The animals were found living amongst clutter and rubbish with no access to water, in a chaotic and unhygienic environment. RSPCA inspectors discovered the house was littered with personal belongings, beer cans, and rubbish, with internal doors off their hinges. The animals were seized and taken to a veterinary practice where they were found to be thirsty and hungry; one cat was emaciated and had suffered unnecessarily for at least one week. The snake was cold and lacked adequate water and a suitable environment.

Stacey Dickinson was caught speeding on the A1(M) between Junctions 59 (Aycliffe) and 60 (Bradbury) on December 29, 2023, while driving her Honda above the 70mph limit. She was sentenced after admitting the offence, and her driving record was endorsed with three penalty points.

Kerry Birmingham was caught on CCTV and mobile phone footage kicking and punching her four-year-old Rottweiler named Sasha at a pub and elsewhere in town. The abuse occurred on multiple occasions, causing the dog pain and fear, though no long-term injuries were sustained. This led to an RSPCA investigation, resulting in the police seizing Sasha on August 23, 2023.