A professional drag artist from East London, Daniel Lindsay, also known by the stage name Diamond Daniels, has been convicted of animal cruelty after a dog under his care starved to death. The 29-year-old from Dagenham admitted causing unnecessary suffering to a two-year-old dog named Zimba, who was discovered emaciated and flea-ridden in a communal bin area.
Details of the Case
The RSPCA was alerted in March 2024 by a local authority enforcement officer after Zimba’s skeletal remains were found partially wrapped in a black refuse bin liner. The dog had been dumped in a communal waste area.
A post-mortem examination revealed the extent of Zimba’s suffering:
- The dog was emaciated, with evidence of severe skeletal muscle wastage and fat tissue depletion.
- Bone marrow atrophy indicated prolonged malnutrition.
- Zimba weighed only 17.4kg at the time of her death and had consumed non-nutritive substances, including rubber, in a desperate attempt to eat.
The RSPCA reported that Zimba had been suffering from severe dehydration and untreated flea infestations.
Court Proceedings
Lindsay admitted to failing to provide adequate flea treatment and failing to investigate and address the causes of Zimba’s weight loss and poor condition. In mitigation, he claimed he did not know who to approach for help in caring for the dog.
Sentencing
Lindsay was sentenced to:
- 26 weeks in prison, suspended for two years.
- 200 hours of unpaid work and 20 days of rehabilitation.
- £500 costs and a £154 victim surcharge.
- A five-year ban on keeping animals, applicable to all species.
RSPCA Response
The RSPCA condemned the neglect, stating, “This was an entirely preventable tragedy. Zimba suffered immensely, and her condition reflected a prolonged period of severe neglect. We urge anyone struggling to care for a pet to reach out for help before it’s too late.”
Community Reaction
The case has sparked outrage among animal welfare advocates, who are calling for stricter penalties for animal cruelty. Many have criticized the suspended prison sentence as insufficient given the severity of the neglect.
