CONVICTED (2024) | huntsman Gregory Edward Baker, born 31 October 1980, of Troedythiw, Rhydcymerau, Llandeilo SA19 7PT – for multiple counts of animal cruelty relating to five equines and one foxhound. Llanelli Magistrates Court found Greg Baker guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to six animals due to prolonged neglect. Baker, a huntsman most recently with the now defunct Llandeilo Farmers Hunt, failed to investigate or address the poor bodily conditions of the equines, who were given a body condition score of between 0 and 0.5 out of 5. All were suffering from lice infestations and rain scald – a painful condition caused by prolonged exposure to the elements. One horse – a little Shetland pony – weighed just 60kg when rescued and rapidly gained 20kg once in the care of the RSPCA. The court heard that at the property’s dog kennels the RSPCA found a number of female hounds, and advice was given to the defendant about one of them who was lame on her front leg. A foxhound with an untreated ulcerated and prolapsed penis was put to sleep at Baker’s request A male hound at the kennels was found with an infected, ulcerated and prolapsed penis and the inspecting vet found there was a smell of “rotting flesh” around the area. The only options for the hound were partial penile amputation and castrate, urethrostomy, or for the dog to be put down. The vet said Baker “elected for the dog to be put to sleep”. A Shetland pony collapsed during the RSPCA visit and had to be helped back to its feet The court heard that the neglect was so severe that one horse had to be euthanised. Baker was found guilty of failing to address the equines’ lameness, skin diseases, and malnutrition, as well as neglecting to provide a suitable environment and diet for the animals. Baker, who was represented by Matthew Paul – a fellow foxhunter and master of the Emlyn Begles, originally pleaded not guilty to all charges. Photo credit: Hunt Saboteurs Association Despite the seriousness of the offences, magistrates decided not to disqualify Baker from keeping animals. This decision was influenced by an RSPCA visit in July 2023, which noted improvements in the conditions of the horses. The court also considered Baker’s previous good record in animal keeping, the low risk of reoffending as assessed by probation services, and the disproportionate impact a disqualification would have on his dependants. Chairman of the bench, Mrs Alison Elizabeth Dorothy Evans, stated that the decision to suspend the sentence was due to the prospect of Baker’s rehabilitation and his role as the primary carer for his dependent children and wife, Gemma Baker. The case highlights the importance of animal welfare and the legal responsibilities of pet owners to ensure their animals’ health and well-being. Sentencing | 20 weeks in prison, suspended for 24 months; 12-month community order with 150 hours of unpaid work; £2,719.45 costs and £154 victim surcharge. No ban. Pembrokeshire Herald Hunt Saboteurs Association WalesOnline