Legal News

Cornwall Council has prosecuted the owner of a smallholding in Truro for offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and The Welfare of Farmed Animals Regulations 2007.

Theresa Cowling, 53, from Idless in Truro has been banned from keeping farm animals for life for offences which included failing to provide piglets with a farrowing rail to protect them from being crushed by their mother – and failing to provide pigs and cattle with dry bedding.

Cowling was also found to have failed to provide pigs and cattle with a suitable diet – and had failed to provide pigs with a safe environment, by allowing them access to injurious objects including old pallets, nails and rusty metal sheets.

She had also failed to ensure the hooves of the cattle were trimmed to prevent pain and suffering.

The court heard that Cowling was first given advice regarding the welfare and straying of her cattle during an investigation in July 2015.

In December 2015, a Cornwall Council Animal Health Inspector – accompanied by an Animal and Plant Health Agency Veterinary Officer – responded to a complaint of cattle and pigs being kept in very wet muddy conditions.

The officers discovered “dreadful” conditions on the farm, with pigs and cattle living up to their bellies in mud – the animals had not been given any bedding and were cold and shivering.

At Truro Magistrates’ Court, Cowling pleaded guilty to charges against her in relation to offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and The Welfare of Farmed Animals Regulations 2007.

She was sentenced to 150 hours of unpaid work in the community, banned from keeping farm animals for life – and was ordered to pay £1,250 in costs.

Cornwall Council Cabinet Member for communities, Geoff Brown, said:

“Our officers work to assist farmers, smallholders and businesses across Cornwall in complying with the relevant legislation – however, where we find repeated non-compliance and a lack of safeguarding of farm animal welfare, we will take formal action to protect animals and the reputation of the Cornish farming industry.”

Duncan Lewis Criminal Solicitors

Duncan Lewis criminal solicitors can advise at any stage of a charge under the Animal Welfare Act or The Welfare of Farmed Animals Regulations, including at the start of an investigation and before charges are brought.

There are Duncan Lewis offices across England and Wales – and a Duncan Lewis solicitor can attend meeting with the local council and prosecuting authorities, as well as attending court hearings.

Duncan Lewis is also able to advise on charges relating to illegally imported animals, such as puppies and livestock – or charges relating to fraud or misrepresentation in the sale of animals and livestock.

For expert legal advice on charges involving animal welfare, call Duncan Lewis criminal solicitors on 0333 772 0409.