FILIP KUCZKOWSKI FROM ROTTON PARK AND KIDDERMINSTER CRAMMED 20 MALNOURISHED CHINCHILLAS INTO TINY CAGES

On October 20, 2020, a disturbing case of animal neglect came to light at a property located on Laxey Road in Rotton Park, Birmingham. The incident involved Filip Pawel Kuczkowski, a Polish national with strong ties to Kidderminster, who was found to be responsible for the severe mistreatment of a group of chinchillas kept within his residence.

RSPCA inspector Jon Ratcliffe was dispatched to the address after receiving reports that several chinchillas had been left unattended and possibly neglected for an extended period. Upon arrival, when no one responded to his attempts to make contact, Inspector Ratcliffe decided to look through the letterbox for any signs of distress. It was then that he spotted a dead chinchilla at the bottom of a cage, which prompted immediate concern and action.

Realizing the urgency of the situation, Inspector Ratcliffe contacted the police to assist in gaining entry into the property. Once inside, the scene was horrifying: nineteen chinchillas were found confined in cages with empty water bottles, indicating they had been deprived of water for a significant amount of time. One of the chinchillas was trapped inside a cage, wedged between the wire bars and an internal ramp. Despite efforts by a veterinarian to save the animal, it was in such poor condition that it had to be euthanized.

The remaining chinchillas were visibly thin, injured from fighting with each other, and underfed. Inspector Ratcliffe described the scene, stating, “The chinchillas inside the cages clambered frantically to reach the water bottles to drink. It was clear these animals had been deprived of water for some considerable time.” He further explained that one chinchilla was found trapped and in a dire state, requiring immediate veterinary intervention. The veterinarian confirmed that the animal was suffering and had to be put down due to the severity of its condition.

In total, the inspector removed seven live chinchillas from the cage nearest the front door, alongside the deceased chinchilla initially seen through the letterbox and the one rushed to the vet. A second cage contained an additional ten chinchillas, many of which exhibited signs of malnutrition, poor coat quality, and injuries or bites consistent with fighting among the animals.

Following the rescue, the surviving chinchillas were transported to RSPCA’s Newbrook Farm Animal Hospital, where they received necessary care and treatment. After recovery, they were made available for rehoming, giving them a chance at a better life.

Filip Pawel Kuczkowski, who has a prior conviction for drink driving while residing in Kidderminster, was charged and pleaded guilty to six animal welfare offences related to this case. His sentencing included 100 hours of unpaid work, a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement, and a fine of £495 in costs and charges. Additionally, he was banned from keeping any animals for five years, a restriction that will expire in June 2026.

This case highlights the serious neglect and cruelty inflicted upon innocent animals and underscores the importance of animal welfare enforcement in the Birmingham area.