KIM BARTON'S ILLEGAL DOG BREEDING SCANDAL IN SWINDON REVEALED

Kim Barton, operating under the business name Swisshaven and based at Melfort Close in the Sparcells area of Swindon, has been officially convicted in 2023 for engaging in illegal dog breeding activities. The court found that Barton sold four separate litters of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs without possessing the necessary licensing required by law.

Despite the serious nature of her actions, Barton’s punishment was notably lenient, consisting of a financial penalty amounting to less than £800. This penalty was imposed after her successful prosecution by Swindon Borough Council, with support from Wiltshire Police and the RSPCA, highlighting the collaborative effort to crack down on illegal animal trade practices in the region.

During the investigation, it was revealed that Barton sold each puppy for approximately £2,000. Several customers who purchased these puppies expressed concerns about their socialization and behavioral development, leading some to return the animals. However, Barton reportedly refused to issue refunds to these customers, even when puppies were returned due to inadequate social adjustment. Additionally, she declined to refund deposits paid for puppies that were no longer available as advertised, further aggravating her legal troubles.

The court proceedings uncovered that Barton was well aware of the legal regulations governing dog breeding, especially given her involvement in dog shows. This knowledge underscores the seriousness of her violations, as she knowingly bypassed licensing laws to conduct her breeding operations.

Furthermore, evidence presented during the trial indicated that Barton’s breeding activities were more extensive than initially believed. It was revealed that she had bred at least 18 additional puppies since the investigation began, demonstrating a blatant and ongoing disregard for the law. The breeding operation was described as complex, with some sperm imported from the United States to facilitate her breeding activities.

In sentencing, Barton was fined £120, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £48, and required to cover court costs amounting to £600. Most significantly, she was issued a prohibition order that bans her from dealing in dogs—selling or trading— for a minimum period of two years. Any breach of this order could result in her imprisonment, emphasizing the court’s intent to prevent further illegal activities in the future.