Pembrokeshire man banned from keeping animals has 94 further animals removed after ignoring ruling

Livestock and dogs were seized on Tuesday 18 April 2023 to prevent suffering under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

In total 94 animals were removed: one cow, five dogs, 19 various poultry, 26 sheep and 43 pigs.

Council Officers worked alongside Dyfed-Powys Police, RSPCA, local veterinary surgeons and Animal and Plant Health Agency vets.

The background to the operation involves the previous prosecution of Richard Scarfe of Pembroke Dock.

Scarfe was convicted of multiple animal welfare offences on 26^th January 2022 and subsequently disqualified from keeping cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and donkeys for a period of five years.

Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 anyone disqualified under this act is not allowed to own, keep or participate in the keeping of animals, or be party to an arrangement under which they are entitled to control or influence the way in which animals are kept.

During subsequent visits by Animal Health Officers from Pembrokeshire County Council, Officers acted on a Section 18 determination by veterinary colleagues that animals still at the site were suffering or likely to suffer if not removed.

The council said that all of the animals were removed to a place of safety where their veterinary needs were assessed and their care be monitored.

Pembrokeshire Council added that further legal proceedings will now follow.

Cllr Michelle Bateman, Cabinet Member for Housing Operations and Regulatory Services, said: “I commend the actions of Council Officers and partners to remove these animals, prevent suffering and protect their welfare.

“I hope this action will serve as a deterrent to others that Pembrokeshire County Council will act decisively where serious cases of animal neglect and suffering arise.”

(Lead image: Pembrokeshire Council)