Two women who admitted multiple animal cruelty offences have had their sentencing moved to crown court because of the severity of their crimes.
Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court heard that Kerry-Ann Pickersgill, of Park House Farm, Marwood, would likely get a heavier custodial sentence than a court its level can impose because of her previous conviction as well as the extent of the cruelty.
It also heard that while Ellie Newby, also of Park House Farm, Marwood, had no previous convictions and had admitted fewer offences, the cases were linked and the pair should be sentenced together.
At the hearing earlier this month, RSPCA prosecutor Kevin Campbell told the court that three horses had died because of the women’s cruelty, and that 16 other horses and 21 dogs had also suffered at their hands.
Previously, Pickersgill, 48, admitted breaching a conviction at Wakefield and Pontefract Magistrates’ Court in May 2015 which disqualified her from keeping certain animals.
She also pleaded guilty to 12 other charges relating to causing unnecessary suffering to the animals.
Newby had previously admitted to two cases of neglecting the needs of two dogs.
Judge Steven Hood told the court the maximum sentence a magistrates’ court can impose is one year in prison.
Addressing Pickersgill he said: “In your case Ms Pickersgill there are aggravating features, namely the sheer number of the offences before the court, but also your previous convictions for animal cruelty and the fact that you breached the disqualification previously given by commissioning these offences.
“Even with the credit of an early guilty plea, my view is that you ought to go to crown court to be sentenced.”
The judge said Pickersgill’s offences likely fell into the “highest category in terms of culpability” which carries a minimum two-year sentence.
Judge Hood described Newby’s case as borderline where a magistrates’ court could potentially give a sentence.
However, he added: “I think it is inappropriate that I sentence you today in relation to your matters and then Ms Pickersgill goes to another court and is sentenced in a different way.
“I think the crown court should have both of your cases together so there can be some form of parity.”
Judge Hood extended the women’s unconditional bail. They are due to appear at Durham Crown Court on January 8 for sentencing.
