Crime Solicitors

A court has heard how a fast food takeaway in Wigan was contaminated with sewage and inspectors found a dead rat wedged between equipment.

Krunchy’s Chicken and Pizza in Newtown, Wigan was “littered” with rat droppings, dirt and mould – the dead rat was found wedged between two freezers used to store food.

Inspectors photographed another rat on the premises and immediately closed the takeaway after the inspection in 2014, on the grounds that poor hygiene levels represented an immediate risk of injury to health.

Owner Waseem Arshad was away in Pakistan dealing with a family emergency at the time of the inspection, but was prosecuted because his name was on the licence.

Arshad pleaded guilty to six charges of failing to comply with EU food safety and hygiene laws.

Krunchy’s Chicken and Pizza had previously received a three out of five rating by council officers – but a member of the public complained about conditions at the takeaway.

Inspectors said they found the premises in a “dire state”.

The prosecution told the court:

“There were three really obvious areas of rat activity found downstairs and around the premises – and a rodent carcass was also found under the floorboards…

“Tests showed a lack of knowledge in basic food safety standards amongst staff.”

The court heard that blocked drains, grease and debris had caused sewage water to contaminate the storeroom.

Holes were also discovered in the wall, allowing rodents to enter the premises.

Arshad was in business with others, but the court was told that he had “taken the hit” for the state of the premises.

His defence lawyer said:

“He is extremely ashamed and embarrassed… He came to this country and worked hard and gained qualifications from a restaurant in London.

“The damage to his reputation in the catering industry has been substantial and will follow him for years to come.”

Arshad was fined £2,850 with £1,370 costs and a £47.50 victim surcharge.

Wigan Council’s assistant director of regulation services, Alan Blundell, said:

“The vast majority of food businesses in the borough meet good standards to ensure food safety – and we work closely with all food establishments to ensure they meet, maintain and further improve their standards.

“However, we do take formal action against businesses that persistently fail to meet standards because they put the public at risk and that is not acceptable.”

Wigan Council added the premises were now registered to a new proprietor, who had made “slight improvements”.

Duncan Lewis Crime Lawyers

Duncan Lewis crime lawyers can advise at any stage of a charge involving breaches of food safety and hygiene and involving injury to public health.

There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide to offer representation at Magistrates Courts and Crown Courts and for interview under caution.
For expert legal advice on all criminal charges or breaches of food safety and hygiene laws, call Duncan Lewis crime lawyers on 020 7923 4002.
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