NEIL AND DEBBIE HARPER'S HORRIFIC PUPPY TRAFFICKING IN WEST BROMWICH REVEALED

Neil Christopher Harper, born on April 28, 1967, and his ex-wife Debbie Ann Harper, now known as Debbie Sheffield, born on October 27, 1982, have been at the center of a disturbing animal cruelty case that has shocked the community of West Bromwich. The couple, who previously resided at Farm End Close, B71 4AB, and later at Marnham Road, B71 4AB, were found to be operating a brutal puppy trafficking business from their homes, involving the inhumane treatment and illegal sale of puppies.

According to court reports, Neil and Debbie Harper kept numerous puppies confined in cages that lacked basic necessities such as heating and water. These animals were kept in deplorable conditions, with some being delivered to their residence in crates that were stacked on top of each other in sheds, where they were left shivering and without proper care. The couple’s activities drew widespread condemnation after buyers who visited their former home in Netherhouse Close, Kingstanding, were horrified by the state of the animals. Many of the puppies, including breeds such as King Charles Spaniels, boxers, and pugs, were found to be severely malnourished and in poor health.

The court was told that the Harpers were involved in a large-scale puppy trafficking operation, which appeared to be quite lucrative. The puppies were imported from various parts of Ireland and other regions, then sold at prices ranging from £150 to £700. The investigation, conducted by the RSPCA and police, uncovered that the couple had been involved in this illegal trade for approximately a year. Neil Harper admitted that several puppies had died during this period, with the supplier merely replacing the deceased animals. Neil also revealed that he and his wife earned between £20 and £30 for each puppy sold.

On February 28, 2012, authorities executed a search warrant at the Harpers’ property. During the raid, officers discovered puppies confined in crates within two sheds, with no bedding or proper shelter. The conditions were so dire that some of the puppies were on the verge of death, and their rescue was deemed critical to their survival. Neil Harper admitted to being involved in the puppy selling business for about a year, acknowledging the death of several puppies and the practice of importing animals from abroad.

Neil Harper was sentenced to six months in prison, while Debbie Harper received a six-month prison sentence that was suspended for two years. Both individuals were permanently banned from owning or caring for any animals. The court’s judgment reflected the severity of their cruelty, with District Judge Sham Quereshi emphasizing that the puppies’ conditions were a clear indication of their inhumane treatment. The judge also noted that puppy trafficking from Ireland appeared to be a significant and organized industry, with the Harpers being just one part of a larger network.

Following their initial sentencing, the Harpers’ activities did not cease. In October 2013, they appeared once again before the courts after breaching their lifetime ban on keeping animals. Authorities had received a tip-off leading them to their new residence on Marnham Road, West Bromwich. There, they were found with three dogs and two cats confined in cages, directly violating the court order. During interviews, both Neil and Debbie Harper claimed they believed the animals belonged to Debbie’s father and that they were unaware of the breach. Their defense argued that they had not fully understood the restrictions imposed on them.

Magistrates responded by sentencing each to 16 weeks in prison, suspended for one year, considering their family circumstances and Debbie Harper’s health issues. Neil Harper was also ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid community service, while Debbie Harper received a supervision order for 12 months, which included participation in activities for vulnerable women. Additionally, both were ordered to pay court costs of £200 and a victim surcharge of £80. The case highlights ongoing concerns about animal cruelty and illegal puppy trade in West Bromwich, with authorities vowing to continue their efforts to combat such inhumane practices.