ALAN MEE FROM NEWTON-LE-WILLOWS FACES CRIMINAL CHARGES OVER WILD OWLS IN FILTHY CAGES

In a case that has drawn significant attention from animal welfare authorities, Alan Mee, a resident of Newton-le-Willows, was found guilty of neglecting and illegally possessing wild birds. Born on November 15, 1961, Mee’s address at the time of the incident was 63, Larch Avenue, Newton-le-Willows, WA12 8JF.

The incident came to light on June 20, 2022, when a coordinated operation involving Cheshire Police’s Rural Crime Team, Merseyside Police, the RSPCA, and Natural England was carried out at Mee’s residence. The operation was initiated following credible information suggesting that wild birds, specifically tawny owls, were being kept in poor conditions at his property.

During the raid, officers discovered three tawny owls confined within a small aviary that was grossly inadequate for their needs. The conditions of their captivity were alarming: the owls had no access to fresh water, lacked sufficient space to move freely, and their enclosure did not have a clean or suitable food ledge. Two of the owls were suspected to have been taken illegally from their natural habitat, which raised concerns about illegal wildlife trafficking and the welfare of the birds.

Following a thorough investigation, Mee was charged with multiple offenses. He pleaded guilty to three counts of failing to take reasonable steps to ensure the animals’ needs were met, and two counts of possessing wild birds without proper authorization. The court found that Mee’s actions, or lack thereof, had subjected the owls to unnecessary suffering and neglect.

In sentencing, the court imposed a fine along with court costs totaling £823. Additionally, Mee was disqualified from keeping any birds for a period of five years, a ban that will remain in effect until July 2028. This case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and wildlife organizations to combat illegal wildlife trade and ensure the proper treatment of wild animals in the UK.

Local and national news outlets, including the Manchester Evening News and BBC News, have reported on this case, highlighting the importance of wildlife protection laws and the consequences of neglecting animal welfare.