Leeds couple that forced their four children to live in 'disgraceful' conditions avoid jail
The youngsters required treatment after the neglect
A couple who forced their children to live in filthy conditions as they “prioritised” drink and drugs have been spared custody.
The judge at Leeds Crown Court said they would not get the “assistance” they needed, should they be locked up.
The pair, who cannot be named to protect the identities of their children, were instead given suspended sentences.
The pair, who are both 36, lived in south Leeds and admitted assaulting, ill treating, abandoning or neglecting their four children.
The mother admitted four counts, with the dad admitting two.
The court heard that a social worker found the family home in an “appalling” and “disgraceful” state” during a visit in 2023.
There were dirty floors, no bedding, waste food left on the floor, fly infestations and faeces smeared on the door.
One of the children, who was five, was still wearing nappies.
It was found they required dental treatment and immunisations, while one complained about having blurred vision and required an eye test.
During one visit by social services, the mother was even drinking alcohol.
Judge Christopher Batty labelling it “chronic abuse”, with the children being quickly removed from their care.
Mitigating for the father, Philip Mahoney conceded they were “hopelessly inadequate parents” and that they “prioritised” drink and drugs over their children.
However, he said the man was “not a hopeless case” and wanted to get their children back.
Mitigating for the mother, Susannah Proctor said she was now “trying her best” to conquer her demons.
Judge Batty told the couple: “You clearly want your kids back, but you only have yourselves to blame that they are not with you.”
“Kids are there to be loved, protected, fed, clothed and when they need it, medical assistance.
“If I send you to custody, which you richly deserve, then you will do half of your sentence and then nobody will bother with you, so you want get any assistance or pointed in the right direction.”
He gave them each 19 months’ jail, suspended for 18 months. The mother was given 30 rehabilitation days with probation and a 120-day alcohol treatment requirement.
The dad received 25 rehabilitation days and a six-month GPS tracking order.