CONVICTED (2021) | Khristian Antonio Beckett (aka Khristian ‘K-Star’ Walker), born 18 June 1992, of 65 King Charles Avenue, Walsall WS2 0DN – left his elderly dog to suffer with maggot-infested wounds
Father-of-one Beckett, who has links to the Southend on Sea area, admitted causing suffering to his German shepherd-type dog, Stella, between July 9 and 14, 2020.
The 14-year-old pet was found lying on a sheet outside on a wet patio at Beckett’s home in King Charles Avenue, Walsall.
She had a number of skin lesions, fly strike, ear disease and poor body condition.
Stella was taken into the RSPCA’s care, where a vet advised it would be in her best interest to put her to sleep.
RSPCA Inspector Fiona Howell, who led the investigation, said: “I found Stella lying on a sheet outside on a wet patio. Her wet, dirty, matted coat was covered in fly eggs and maggots and a wound to her back was bleeding. She was aware that I was there as her eyes would follow me but she was unable to lift her head.”
She continued: “I took her straight to RSPCA Newbrook Farm Animal Hospital that night where vet nurses carried her from my then maggot-infested van on a stretcher into the practice. An initial examination revealed Stella had multiple skin wounds on her back, some of which contained fly larvae. She also had inflamed ear canals with copious quantities of dark ear wax and reacted with pain when her back and legs were moved.
“Sadly the extent of Stella’s suffering and pain was so much that the vet advised it would be in her best interest to put her to sleep immediately. Sadly, necessary action was not taken in time – and Stella’s condition ultimately deteriorated significantly.
“Owning an animal is a privilege – but this man’s failure to ensure appropriate veterinary care meant that was clearly not appreciated in this case.”
Sentencing: 18-month community order with a requirement to do 170 hours of unpaid work; a total of £495 costs and charges. Banned from keeping dogs only for just five years (expires March 2026).
This is unbelievable, as 14 is a very good age for a German Shepherd Dog. Meaning he had obviously cared for her in the past. Such a shame, If only he had taken her to the Vet when she first started to go down hill, as this was obviously a very Elderly Dog.