MITCHELL WRIGHT FROM BIRMINGHAM CAUGHT KEEPING BIRDS OF PREY IN HORRIBLE CONDITIONS IN LEICESTERSHIRE

Mitchell Wright, a man originally from Birmingham, has been found guilty of serious animal welfare violations after authorities uncovered a disturbing situation involving his birds of prey. Wright, born in September 1990, resided at 20 Cartwright Road, Sutton Coldfield, and was involved in keeping a collection of 23 protected bird species in deplorable conditions.

In September 2023, officers from Leicestershire Police executed a raid on Wright’s property located on Whitehill Road, Ellistown, Coalville. During the operation, they discovered the birds confined within inadequate aviaries, with conditions that were clearly neglectful and harmful to the animals’ well-being. The police reported that the birds were kept in poor circumstances, with no proper documentation or permits to legally possess such protected species.

Further investigations revealed that Wright had failed to hold the necessary paperwork required by law, specifically the documentation mandated by the Animal and Plant Health Agency. This oversight was a violation of regulations designed to protect wildlife and ensure proper care for endangered species.

Wright faced multiple charges and ultimately pleaded guilty to three offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. These charges included failing to prevent unnecessary suffering of animals, neglecting to ensure proper animal welfare, and possessing unregistered birds of prey. The court proceedings highlighted the severity of the neglect and the breach of legal responsibilities.

The Leicestershire and Rutland Rural Policing Team expressed their satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “We are really pleased with this result at court and are grateful to all those who helped us with caring for the birds, advising us and giving their expert opinions and statements. We couldn’t have done it without you.”

As part of the court’s ruling, the birds are now under the care of local falconers who are providing them with the appropriate environment and treatment. Wright’s sentencing included a 12-month community order, which involves 15 days of rehabilitation activities and 200 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, he was fined £85 to cover Crown Prosecution costs and ordered to pay a £114 victim surcharge.

Furthermore, Wright has been banned from keeping any animals for a period of five years, a restriction that will last until April 2029. This case underscores the importance of wildlife protection laws and the ongoing efforts by authorities to combat illegal and neglectful animal keeping practices in the region.