JEREMIAH AND JASON SMITH BUSTED FOR ANIMAL ABUSE IN BURTON-ON-TRENT

In a disturbing case of animal neglect and cruelty, Jeremiah Smith, born July 1997, and his father Jason Smith, born February 1972, both residents of Burton Road, Branston, Burton-on-Trent DE14 3DL, faced serious legal repercussions for their involvement in the mistreatment of numerous animals. The incident came to light after an investigation by the RSPCA, which uncovered a distressing scene at their property in Burton-on-Trent, where up to 70 animals were found living in deplorable conditions.

Among the animals discovered were chickens, rabbits, and various birds of prey, including owls and a kestrel. The RSPCA inspectors reported that many of these animals were kept in inadequate cages, with some birds of prey confined in cages meant for parrots, and all were being fed inappropriate diets. The chickens, in particular, were suffering from a mite infestation, which had gone untreated, further exacerbating their suffering. The conditions at the property highlighted a blatant disregard for animal welfare standards.

Jason Smith, the elder of the two, pleaded guilty to multiple charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. He admitted to failing to prevent unnecessary suffering to animals between August 10 and 15, 2017. His failures included neglecting to treat 17 chickens for a mite infestation and not providing a suitable living environment for 30 chickens. Additionally, he failed to meet the basic needs of three goldfinches, neglecting their habitat requirements.

Jeremiah Smith, the son of Jason and a father to triplets, also faced charges and pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to protected animals. His violations involved neglecting the needs of five rabbits, a kestrel, two barn owls, and 12 pigeons. The court heard that Jeremiah failed to provide these animals with appropriate living conditions, proper diets, and a constant water supply for the rabbits, which are essential for their well-being.

The RSPCA praised the court for their decisive action and issued a stern warning to the public about the importance of responsible pet ownership. They emphasized that keeping animals requires a genuine commitment to their care and well-being, and neglecting this duty is unacceptable.

Both defendants expressed intentions to appeal the court’s decision. Jason Smith was fined a total of £1,055, while Jeremiah Smith received fines amounting to £1,455. Furthermore, both men were disqualified from keeping animals for a period of two years, a ban that expired in 2020. The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of animal cruelty and the importance of animal welfare laws in protecting vulnerable creatures.