LEIGHTON DONNELLY FROM PONTYATES FACES COURT OVER CRUELTY TO SNAKES IN GWENDRAETH VALLEY

Leighton Marc Donnelly, a resident of Maes Glas in the village of Pontyates within the Gwendraeth Valley, was involved in a disturbing case of animal neglect that culminated in his appearance before magistrates. Born around 1984, Donnelly was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, specifically a boa constrictor, an offense under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

The incident came to light after Donnelly abandoned his property on Baptist Well Street in Waun Wen, Swansea, due to financial difficulties, notably falling behind on his rent payments. When the landlord attempted to access the property after several weeks of unsuccessful contact, he discovered a distressing scene: a loose, emaciated boa constrictor wandering freely in a bedroom. Additionally, a dead snake was found inside a vivarium within the same premises, indicating neglect and possible abandonment.

The grim discovery was reported on April 14, 2019, by the RSPCA, with prosecutor Jon Tarrant providing details of the case. The snake was examined by a veterinarian, who confirmed that the animal was in a severely emaciated condition, having lost a significant amount of body weight. The vet concluded that the snake’s state of starvation must have been the result of a prolonged period without food, suggesting neglect over an extended period.

During police interviews, Donnelly admitted that the last time he had seen the snakes was around February or March of that year. In court, Donnelly chose to represent himself and expressed remorse for his actions, offering an apology for the suffering caused.

The magistrates emphasized the seriousness with which the court treats offences involving animal cruelty. They noted that Donnelly had demonstrated a “flagrant disregard” for the welfare of the snakes, which contributed to the severity of the sentence.

As part of the court’s ruling, Donnelly was sentenced to a 12-month community order, which includes participation in a rehabilitation course and the completion of 60 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £400 towards the costs incurred by the case. Furthermore, he was banned from keeping any animals for a period of two years, a restriction that has now expired, but underscores the court’s stance on animal protection.