WEST CHESTER, PA — A jury found Denise Durfor, 48, of Nottingham, guilty on Friday of neglect of animals, announced the Chester County District Attorney’s Office. The defendant was the owner of Pleasant Pet Resort in West Nottingham where Roscoe, a 14-year-old Pekinese mix, was being cared for while his owner was on vacation. Roscoe sustained serious and life-threatening injuries that ultimately resulted in his death. She will be sentenced at a later date.
“This was devastating for Roscoe’s family. When placing a loved-one in the care of others it is expected that they will provide proper care,” said Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan. “We thank the Brandywine SPCA for their thorough investigation surrounding cases of animal abuse, and we hope this verdict can bring Roscoe’s family some peace.”
On August 6, 2021, Roscoe was dropped off at Pleasant Pet Resort in West Nottingham to board. On August 17, 2021, when Roscoe was picked up, he was concealed in a towel, as the defendant had just given him a bath. While putting Roscoe in the car she noticed that the towel had blood on it, and saw that Roscoe’s tail was missing, and flesh was exposed. Roscoe was rushed for emergency care and treated for maggots under his eyelid and tail, as well as exposed vertebrae where his tail was missing.
On August 18, 2021, Roscoe was transferred to Willow Run Veterinary Clinic where he was treated for his severe injuries and infections. Over the course the treatment, Roscoe’s health continued to deteriorate, to the point where he had to be euthanized.
Brandywine Valley SPCA investigated, assisted by Chester County Detective Keith Cowdright. ADAs Alyssa Amoroso and Monica Szyszkiewicz were the assigned prosecutors.
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