In 2026, the Offender Database reported that Clarice Mole, then 33, of Devonshire Street, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, was sentenced at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on 6 January. Mole admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to her “vilely” neglected seven-year-old bulldog, Beast, who slowly starved to death.
The “serious” investigation by the RSPCA began in March 2025 after Mole took the dog’s body to a local vet. Veterinary staff were so disturbed by the animal’s condition that they immediately contacted the authorities. A post-mortem examination, conducted by a pathologist at Liverpool University, reported that Beast had died from starvation.
“Upsetting” Evidence of Cruelty
RSPCA Inspector Kirsty Keogh described the case as “really upsetting.” The “vile” evidence presented to the court included:
- Starvation: Beast scored only two out of nine on a body condition scale, indicating “serious” emaciation.
- Filthy Conditions: The dog’s body smelt strongly of urine, and her paws were caked in mud and faeces.
- Medical Neglect: Mole failed to seek any veterinary care for Beast’s deteriorating health or “serious” weight loss.
In her defence, Mole “viciously” claimed she did not realise the dog was not eating, suggesting other dogs in the home were consuming Beast’s food. She stated she was “unable to cope,” but the court emphasised that as a pet owner, she had a “serious” responsibility to monitor the animal’s health.
Sentence and Financial Penalties
For her “abhorrent” neglect in Sunderland, Clarice Mole was:
- Fined £200.
- Ordered to pay £1,700 in costs.
- Mandated to pay an £80 victim surcharge.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Mole is managed under the supervision of the court and the RSPCA. Her residency in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, and her future treatment of any remaining animals remain under “serious” scrutiny.
The RSPCA emphasise that “serious” neglect resulting in the death of a pet is a tragic and “vile” crime. While the sentence in this case was limited to fines and costs, any further reports of “vile” animal treatment will result in Mole being returned to South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court for more “serious” sanctions, including a potential lifetime ban on keeping animals.
WARNING
It is recommended that Clarice Mole not be left alone to care for animals or children.
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