MARK WEST AND REBECCA SOWDEN OF EXETER SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL NEGLECT

Mark West, born circa 1985, and Rebecca Sowden, born on October 22, 1991, both residents of Taunton Close, St Thomas, Exeter EX2 9EB, were convicted in 2025 of keeping a total of 29 pets in a cramped flat and neglecting their needs.

The couple housed 14 snakes, 12 cats, a tortoise, a bearded dragon, and a leopard gecko within a single one-bedroom flat. The animals suffered from inadequate feeding, watering, and exercise, and were kept in a space covered with faeces, with insufficient living conditions and heating.

Despite being advised 19 times by organizations including the RSPCA, social services, police, and local authorities about the poor state of their home and animals, the couple failed to improve the situation.

During court proceedings, it was revealed that Sowden had studied animal care at college, while West worked as a fast food delivery driver.

Both West and Sowden admitted to two charges related to neglect and failure to ensure the welfare of their animals. All the animals were subsequently signed over.

RSPCA inspector Miranda Albinson, who led the investigation, described the conditions: "The conditions within the property were squalid."

She further stated, "These animals were badly neglected and were confined within a space that severely compromised their health and welfare."

In terms of sentencing, the court ordered that West and Sowden each complete a 12-month community order involving unpaid work, and pay costs amounting to £514. Additionally, they are prohibited from keeping any animals for eight years, with the ban set to expire in May 2033.