ANNE CORAM OF SEVENOAKS FACES COURT OVER HORRIFIC RABBIT CRUELTY IN WROTHAM

In a disturbing case uncovered in Wrotham, Sevenoaks, animal welfare authorities brought to light the severe neglect and suffering inflicted upon dozens of rabbits by local resident Anne Coram. Born around 1955 and residing at Thomas Wyatt Way, Coram’s case drew significant attention after the RSPCA revealed the appalling conditions in which she kept her animals.

Investigators discovered a heartbreaking scene: four dead baby rabbits and 36 living in deplorable, filthy environments within her home. The rabbits were confined to dilapidated, cramped hutches that were clearly far too small to accommodate their needs. These enclosures lacked basic amenities such as proper runs for exercise, access to water, and sufficient food, highlighting a blatant disregard for animal welfare.

The RSPCA inspector Rosie Russon, who led the investigation, explained that concerns had initially been raised in March by members of the public. These witnesses reported seeing rabbits escaping from Coram’s property and roaming freely around a nearby communal car park. This prompted the authorities to trace the source of the animals, leading them to Coram’s residence in Wrotham.

Upon inspection, the inspector found the conditions to be shockingly neglectful. The rabbits were kept in dilapidated hutches, with no access to outdoor space or proper care. Many of the animals were suffering from health issues, including dental problems, which had gone untreated. Tragically, four of the baby rabbits had already perished, their bodies discovered during the investigation.

Coram admitted to multiple offences, including causing unnecessary suffering to the rabbits and failing to provide a suitable environment for 36 of them. Despite the severity of the neglect, some of the rabbits were rescued and successfully rehomed, although four had to be euthanized to alleviate their suffering. The court also ordered that all other animals in her care be seized and placed under the protection of the RSPCA.

During court proceedings, Coram was described as a hoarder, with inspector Russon noting that her collection of rabbits had spiraled out of control. She explained that her daughter, Holly Marie Coram, had initially started keeping rabbits as a hobby, but the situation quickly escalated beyond her ability to manage. The influx of animals was compounded by others giving her rabbits to care for, and breeding among the animals further exacerbated the problem.

In sentencing, Coram received a six-month community order, which included a 10-day rehabilitation activity requirement. She was also ordered to pay costs totaling £145. Additionally, she was disqualified from keeping any animals for two years, a ban that expired in 2018. This case underscores the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglecting the needs of vulnerable creatures in one’s care.