CARL KAWKA ROCHDALE HORSE ABUSE SCANDAL: HORRIFIC NEGLECT LEADS TO SLEEPING HORSES

Carl Kawka, a resident of Rochdale, was found guilty in 2019 of severe animal welfare violations involving his care of horses. The case centered around his residence at Channing Court, Rochdale OL16 4QG, where authorities uncovered a disturbing level of neglect that resulted in the suffering and eventual euthanasia of multiple horses.

Investigations were initiated after concerns were raised about the condition of ten horses kept in stables located off Duchess Street in Oldham. The RSPCA, along with officers from World Horse Welfare, conducted a thorough inspection of the premises. What they discovered was shocking: eight of the horses had severely overgrown and deformed hooves, a clear sign of prolonged neglect. The hooves had become so problematic that the animals were left crippled, unable to walk properly, and in immense pain.

During the inspection, it was revealed that the horses had not received proper hoof care for at least twelve months. Normally, horses require hoof trimming approximately every six weeks to prevent overgrowth and deformity. The lack of such care had led to the horses' hooves growing uncontrollably, causing them to struggle with mobility and suffering immensely.

The conditions within the stable were appalling. The environment was filthy, with the stable block piled high with feces, making it impossible for rescuers to access the animals initially. In fact, two of the horses had to be dug out from the depths of the filth, as the accumulation had blocked the stable doors. The neglect was so severe that the situation was described as the worst case of horse neglect seen by Inspector Danni Jennings in her 11-year career with the RSPCA.

Inspector Jennings described the scene as heartbreaking: “Because of the filth in the stables it was difficult to see how bad the hooves were but then it soon became apparent when we led them outside. This is the worst case of horse neglect I have seen in my 11-year career as an RSPCA inspector. The horses were clearly suffering and were crippled, they were struggling to walk, and it was obvious they had not seen the light of day for a long period of time. The way they were neglected was horrific – it was a really sad and depressing day for all involved.”

As a result of the intervention and subsequent treatment, two of the horses showed signs of recovery. One of these, a horse named Ronnie, has been rehomed and is now on the path to a better life. Another horse, Celine, is also recovering well and is expected to be available for re-homing soon.

In court, Kawka pleaded guilty to two animal welfare offences. The sentencing included an 18-week custodial sentence, which was suspended for 12 months, along with a five-month curfew. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £515 in costs and charges. Kawka was also banned from keeping any animals for the rest of his life, a measure intended to prevent further neglect or abuse.

This case highlights the importance of animal welfare laws and the vigilance required to protect vulnerable animals from neglect and cruelty. The authorities hope that such severe penalties will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider neglecting their animals in the future.