AARON HOBBY FROM HILLSBOROUGH FACES CRIMINAL CHARGES OVER REPTILE NEGLECT IN NORTHERN IRELAND

In August 2017, authorities from the Armagh, Banbridge, and Craigavon Council conducted an inspection of the property belonging to Aaron Hobby, a resident of Grove Park, Hillsborough, with the postal code BT26 6JF. During this visit, Animal Welfare Officers discovered a number of reptiles kept in conditions that were deemed severely inadequate and potentially harmful to their health.

Among the reptiles found were a milk snake, a gecko, and a bearded dragon. Veterinary assessments conducted shortly after revealed that these animals were suffering due to neglect and improper care. The bearded dragon, in particular, was found to be at significant risk because it was being kept in a manner that did not meet its basic needs. It was being warmed by a red bulb, a method that exposes cold-blooded reptiles to serious injury or health issues, especially since bearded dragons originate from warmer climates and require consistent artificial heating to survive and remain healthy in captivity.

The council’s spokesperson emphasized the legal framework under which the case was prosecuted. They stated, “The Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 2011 gives us the powers to prosecute anyone who neglects the needs of exotic as well as domestic animals.” The case resulted in Hobby being held accountable for failing to provide proper care for the reptiles, which were found in conditions far below acceptable standards.

As part of the sentencing, Hobby was ordered to pay nearly £2,100 in legal fees and costs associated with the care of the animals. Additionally, he received a fine of £100 and a levy of £15. The court also imposed a five-year ban on Hobby owning or keeping any animals, a restriction that was set to expire in September 2019. The authorities’ actions serve as a reminder of the importance of animal welfare laws and the consequences of neglecting the needs of animals in one’s care.