PHIL STEVENS FROM NORTH WALES CONVICTED FOR BADGER BAITING AND DOG CRUELTY

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of North Wales, Phil Stevens, a resident of Prestatyn, has been found guilty of heinous animal cruelty offences, including badger baiting and severe mistreatment of his own dogs. The conviction stems from a joint investigation conducted by North Wales Police and the RSPCA, which was initiated after the discovery of graphic photographs and footage depicting Stevens' brutal treatment of wildlife and domestic animals.

Stevens, born around 1984 and residing at 11 Lon Cadfan in Prestatyn (postcode LL19 8HJ), is known locally as the owner of the landscaping business 'Cut Above Tree & Landscapes.' Despite his professional reputation, his involvement in illegal activities related to animal cruelty has brought him into serious legal trouble. He pleaded guilty to multiple charges under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 and the Animal Welfare Act 2006, admitting to causing unnecessary suffering to animals, including his own dogs.

The investigation was sparked by disturbing images posted on social media, where Stevens was seen posing with his injured dogs. Although he attempted to obscure his identity by covering his face with emojis, authorities were able to identify him. A warrant was executed at his property, revealing appalling conditions and evidence of neglect. Inside, officers found dogs suffering from untreated injuries and living in squalid conditions outdoors.

One of the dogs, a white Patterdale Lakeland cross terrier named Millie, was found with extensive facial scarring, resulting in the partial loss of her nose. She was also suffering from fresh grazing and redness below her left eye. Shockingly, Millie was over five weeks pregnant at the time of her rescue. Another dog, a black and tan female terrier called Jess, was discovered hiding inside a plastic barrel. She appeared lethargic, reluctant to move, and was suffering from a significant injury to her chin, which had scabbed over, along with a laceration to her lower lip. Both of her nostrils were blocked, impairing her ability to breathe normally.

In addition to these two terriers, authorities removed a male and female bull lurcher from the premises. All four animals have since been rehomed through the RSPCA after being signed over into the charity’s care. During the seizure, Stevens claimed he did not own the dogs but was responsible for their welfare. When informed that the animals were being taken, he pleaded, “Can I say goodbye to them? I love my dogs.”

Further investigation into Stevens’ mobile phone revealed a series of disturbing images and videos. These included footage of him digging at the entrance of a badger sett, images of the injured terriers, and a live badger that had been recently stunned and disabled but was still alive. The footage also showed Stevens’ dogs attacking the badger and a fox, with his voice audible encouraging the attacks. Other images depicted dogs being used to dig underground and Stevens holding a severely injured terrier with facial scars.

According to a Naturewatch Foundation investigator involved in the case, the investigation into Phil Stevens began in early 2021, driven by suspicions of badger digging and animal cruelty. The investigator stated, “Wild mammals suffered a violent and protracted death, and Stevens’ dogs sustained serious injuries, purely for his entertainment. He failed to provide veterinary treatment, causing further suffering. The conditions these poor dogs were found living in speak volumes about his neglect.”

In court, Stevens was sentenced to two years in jail, suspended for 12 months. He was also ordered to complete 180 hours of community service, pay costs amounting to £628, and a surcharge. Additionally, he was disqualified from owning dogs for five years, a ban that will expire in October 2027.

Phil Stevens, a professional tree surgeon operating under the names 'Cut Above Tree Services' or 'Cut Above Tree and Landscapes,' has faced significant legal repercussions for his actions. He is married to June Stevens, a science teacher at Prestatyn High School. His contact number is 07833 595787, and his case has garnered widespread condemnation across North Wales for the cruelty inflicted upon animals and wildlife alike.