BRIAN BIRCH SHIREBROOK WILDLIFE ABUSER AND BACKYARD BREEDER SENTENCED

In a disturbing case of animal cruelty, Brian Birch, born on 17 September 1993 and residing at Ash Grove, Shirebrook, Mansfield NG20 8QA, was found guilty of heinous acts of neglect and abuse towards multiple animals. Birch, who operated a home improvement business called Midland Property Maintenance, was involved in keeping a significant number of injured and neglected dogs in deplorable conditions, along with ferrets and rabbits that suffered from starvation and disease.

In September 2022, officers from the Shirebrook Safer Neighbourhood Team responded to reports at Birch’s residence, which he shares with his partner, Kayleigh Iles, born on 19 August 1994. Although Iles was initially charged alongside Birch, the court later dropped all charges against her, leaving Birch as the sole defendant in the case.

Upon entering the property, law enforcement officials discovered a shocking scene: 17 dogs of various breeds living amidst filth, with their living environment covered in feces and urine. The animals were in a state of severe neglect, suffering from fleas, bleeding paws, and worms. The conditions were so dire that the dogs' health was critically compromised, prompting the seizure of all 17 animals. These dogs were subsequently taken to kennels for care and rehabilitation.

In addition to the dogs, authorities also confiscated two rabbits and two ferrets, all of which were found to be malnourished and suffering from neglect. The ferret cage contained the bodies of between five and ten dead ferrets, piled on top of one another, indicating a tragic level of cruelty and neglect. The RSPCA was called in to assist with the care of the seized animals, taking custody of the rabbits and ferrets.

Out of the 17 dogs, 14 have been successfully rehomed, although two had to be euthanized due to the extent of their injuries and suffering. Birch initially denied any wrongdoing but later pleaded guilty to charges of failing to ensure the welfare of an animal and causing unnecessary suffering. The court permitted him to keep one Jack Russell dog, which was the only animal he was allowed to retain from his previous collection.

Sentencing for Birch included a 25-week prison sentence, which was suspended for 24 months, along with a fine of £4,000. Additionally, he was banned from keeping any animals for a period of 15 years, with the exception of the Jack Russell dog he was allowed to keep. The court's decision underscores the severity of his actions and the need for strict penalties to deter such cruelty in the future.

This case has garnered significant attention, highlighting the importance of animal welfare laws and the ongoing efforts of local authorities and animal protection agencies to combat cruelty and neglect in communities like Shirebrook.