ALASTAIR CHAMBERS, PUPPY FARMER FROM QUEDGELEY, BANNED FROM DEALING IN ANIMALS FOR 10 YEARS

Alastair Chambers, a man born in November 1980 and residing at Manor Farm, Manor Farm Way, Quedgeley GL2 2ZT, has been convicted in connection with illegal dog breeding activities. The case highlights serious concerns over animal welfare and illegal trade practices within the region.

In July 2020, authorities conducted a thorough police raid at Chambers' residence, uncovering a troubling scene: between 25 and 30 dogs confined within three makeshift structures resembling 'poly tunnel' style enclosures. The discovery raised immediate alarms about the conditions in which these animals were kept and the legality of Chambers' operations.

Following the raid, authorities issued a stern warning to Chambers, explicitly instructing him not to continue breeding dogs without obtaining the necessary licensing. Despite this, investigations revealed that Chambers had been involved in the breeding and sale of dogs without the appropriate permits, a violation of animal welfare laws.

Chambers, who has previously served as an independent councillor and was formerly affiliated with the Tory party on Gloucester City Council, faced court proceedings in June 2022. During the hearing, he admitted to two offences under the Animal Welfare Act related to breeding and selling dogs without a license. His actions drew significant concern from animal welfare advocates and local residents alike.

On December 20, 2023, the court handed down a comprehensive sentence. Chambers was sentenced to an 18-month community order, which includes 150 hours of unpaid work and ten days of rehabilitation activities aimed at addressing his conduct. Additionally, he was disqualified from dealing with or being involved in the transportation or sale of animals for a period of ten years. Importantly, the court clarified that Chambers remains permitted to keep pets, despite the restrictions on dealing in animals professionally.

Further legal action was taken during a subsequent hearing on June 12, 2024. The court ordered Chambers to pay a substantial sum of £49,823 to Gloucester City Council within six months. Failure to comply with this financial penalty could result in a prison sentence of up to three years. This order was part of a broader effort to penalize illegal animal trading and recover proceeds obtained through unlawful activities.

In addition to the financial penalties, a confiscation order was issued under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 by His Honour Judge Lawrie at Gloucester Crown Court. This measure aims to seize assets or profits derived from illegal breeding operations, further discouraging such conduct.

It is noteworthy that in July 2022, Chambers was acquitted of three charges of fraud related to the sale of a deaf cross-breed dog named Casper. The case underscores the complex legal landscape surrounding animal welfare and criminal activity in the region.

This case, reported by Stroud News, underscores the ongoing efforts by authorities to combat illegal puppy farming and ensure animal welfare standards are upheld within Gloucestershire and beyond.