EDWARD RAFFERTY FROM FOREST OF DEAN SENTENCED FOR ILLEGAL DOG BREEDING AND FRAUD

In a significant case that has drawn attention within the Forest of Dean community, Edward Rafferty, a traveller originally from Chaxhill, Westbury-on-Severn, was found guilty of multiple offences related to animal welfare and fraudulent practices involving dog sales. The investigation into Rafferty’s activities was initiated by the Forest of Dean District Council after they received credible allegations that he was engaging in the breeding of dogs without holding the necessary licensing.

In May 2023, authorities, including officers from the local policing team and the Gloucestershire Constabulary’s Rural Crime Team, executed a warrant at a property linked to Rafferty. The search uncovered a commercial dog breeding operation, complete with kennels set up at the rear of the premises, indicating a business enterprise rather than a casual or hobbyist activity. This discovery was particularly concerning given the context of the allegations.

Further investigation revealed that Rafferty was actively advertising puppies for sale on popular online platforms such as Gumtree and Pets4Homes. However, these advertisements were found to be misleading, portraying the sale as coming from a family home with puppies raised in a caring environment. The adverts claimed that all puppies had been vet-checked and were raised in a nurturing setting, which was not the case. This deception was part of a broader scheme to give the impression of a reputable and responsible breeder, thereby misleading potential buyers.

The prosecution was led by officers from the Street Wardens Team and the Licensing department at the Forest of Dean District Council, with additional support from the Council’s Counter Fraud and Enforcement Unit (CFEU) and legal representatives. Rafferty ultimately pleaded guilty to charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which addresses the mistreatment and neglect of animals, as well as a related offence under the Fraud Act 2006, concerning the deceptive advertising practices.

Sentencing for Rafferty was handed down with a combination of penalties designed to serve both punitive and rehabilitative purposes. He received a 22-month custodial sentence, which was suspended for 18 months, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offences within that period. Additionally, Rafferty was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid community work. Financial penalties included a confiscation order under the Proceeds of Crime Act, requiring him to pay £151,241.50—an estimated profit from his illegal dog sales—within three months. He was also ordered to pay costs of £7,701, along with compensation of £342.22 to victims and a victim surcharge of £149. Rafferty was disqualified from keeping dogs for life, a measure intended to prevent any future animal welfare violations.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by local authorities and law enforcement to clamp down on illegal animal breeding and protect the welfare of animals in the Forest of Dean area. The community and animal welfare advocates see this as a significant victory in the fight against unscrupulous breeders who prioritize profit over the well-being of animals.