GEORGE BENNETT'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY IN RIPLEY REVEALED

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Ripley, Geoffrey Bennett, a known dealer of low-value horses and donkeys with close ties to the travelling community, was found guilty of severe animal cruelty and neglect. Bennett, born around 1954 and residing at Hurst Farm on Portsmouth Road, was convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to multiple animals and failing to meet their basic needs in what has been described as one of the most extensive rescue operations in the UK.

Authorities uncovered a horrifying scene at Bennett’s property, where dozens of animals were kept in deplorable conditions. The investigation revealed that Bennett had been neglecting the animals for an extended period, resulting in some suffering from starvation, disease, and severe neglect. During the raid, rescuers discovered two ponies suffering from cyathostominosis, a parasitic disease, and a goat that had collapsed, both of which could not be saved. The scene was so dire that two horses and a goat had to be euthanized on-site to prevent further suffering.

In total, 204 animals were rescued from the premises, including 129 horses and donkeys, 59 dogs, three alpacas, five goats, four chickens, and a duck. Many of these animals were in critical condition upon rescue, with some receiving immediate veterinary treatment. Others were transported to various charities and sanctuaries for ongoing care. The rescue effort involved a coordinated operation with multiple organizations, including Bransby Horses, Redwings, The Horse Trust, The Donkey Sanctuary, and World Horse Welfare, marking one of the largest collective rescue missions in the UK’s history.

Inside the barns and pens, rescuers found animals living amidst a thick layer of waste, with some standing on top of two to three feet of manure. The conditions were appalling, with many animals lacking access to clean water, proper nutrition, dental and hoof care, and veterinary treatment for infections and diseases. The property also contained yards where dogs, some heavily pregnant, were chained or confined in small cages and makeshift kennels, all in filthy surroundings. Bones and carcasses, wrapped in horse rugs, were discovered on a muck heap, indicating the extent of neglect and cruelty. Bone samples and a goat leg were collected for analysis, further evidence of the appalling conditions.

Throughout the operation, a distressing video was played in court, showing the grim reality of the rescue scene. The animals born during the rescue efforts included 20 foals, six goat kids, one alpaca, and nine puppies, although two of the foals died shortly after birth. Bennett and his partner, Christine Kelly, faced trial on 24 counts, primarily related to animal cruelty. While the case against Kelly was later discontinued, she was prosecuted separately for other animal welfare offences.

During the proceedings, Bennett showed no remorse and refused to accept responsibility for the suffering inflicted upon the animals. His defense argued that the farm’s poor conditions in December 2018 and January 2019 were due to unusually wet weather, and that food was available for the animals despite the muddy tracks caused by tractor activity. However, the court found sufficient evidence to convict Bennett of causing unnecessary suffering to two horses and one goat, neglecting the needs of 171 animals, and failing to properly dispose of animal by-products.

Judge Darren Reed sentenced Bennett to 19 weeks in prison and disqualified him from keeping any animals for life. The case was praised by animal welfare organizations, with RSPCA Special Operations Unit case officer Kirsty Withnall emphasizing the extensive planning and effort involved in the rescue. Surrey Police’s PC Hollie Iribar also expressed her relief that the animals had been given a second chance at life, acknowledging the emotional toll of witnessing such cruelty.

World Horse Welfare, one of the partner organizations, described the case as challenging but expressed relief that many horses had been rescued and could now receive proper care. The case has highlighted the importance of vigilance and coordinated efforts in combating animal cruelty, serving as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for animal welfare enforcement in the UK.