CONVICTED (2016) | animal hoarder Anne Coram, born c. 1955, of Thomas Wyatt Way, Wrotham, Sevenoaks TN15 7BH – caused suffering to 40 rabbits; four dead babies found and 36 others in filthy conditions The RSPCA discovered four dead baby rabbits and 36 others living in “dirty, dilapidated, run-down hutches which were far too small” at Anne Coram’s house. Coram, who lives at Thomas Wyatt Place with adult daughter Holly Marie Coram, admitted four offences of causing unnecessary suffering to rabbits and one of failing to provide 36 rabbits with a suitable environment. RSPCA inspector Rosie Russon investigated the case and said: “We were contacted in March by members of the public who were concerned about rabbits which kept getting loose and running around a communal car park. “When I went along to Wrotham and tracked down where the bunnies were coming from I found 36 rabbits living in awful conditions. “They were being kept in dirty, dilapidated, run-down hutches which were far too small. There were no runs for the rabbits to exercise in and they had no access to water and very little food. “Sadly, it was too late for some, and I found the bodies of four baby rabbits which had clearly perished.” Coram failed to provide the dozens of rabbits in her care with veterinary treatment and some were found with dental issues Four of the 36 rabbits which were seized had to be put to sleep to end their suffering, but the rest were successfully rehomed. The court also made an order for all other animals remaining in Ms Coram’s care to be removed and taken into RSPCA care. “Ms Coram was described in court as a ‘hoarder’ and it was clear to me that having so many rabbits had become a major issue for her,” inspector Russon added. “She said that keeping rabbits had started as a hobby for her daughter [Holly Coram] and it had quickly got out of hand. She took on more and more rabbits and couldn’t cope with the numbers she had. “People would give her rabbits to keep and those in her care were breeding so it all got out of control. “We hope now that she will receive the help she needs to tackle the hoarding issue.” Sentence: six-month community order with 10-day rehabilitation activity requirement; total of £145 costs/charges. Disqualified from keeping all animals for just two years (expired 2018). Kent Online