PHILIP SMITH'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY IN LLANFAGLAN: FARMER SENTENCED FOR SEVERE SHEEP ABUSE AND NEGLECT

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Llanfaglan, Welsh farmer Philip Smith has been found guilty of multiple serious animal welfare violations that resulted in the tragic euthanasia of 32 sheep. Smith, who resides at Cefn Ynysoedd in Llanfaglan, Caernarfon, was convicted in 2023 after a thorough investigation into the deplorable conditions on his farm.

Smith’s history of animal welfare breaches dates back to 2013, but the recent case revealed a pattern of neglect and cruelty that caused significant suffering among his flock. He pleaded guilty to charges related to animal welfare breaches and the improper disposal of sheep remains, highlighting his failure to meet basic standards of animal care and responsibility.

The court was informed that officials inspecting Smith’s farm found approximately 150 sheep, of which around 75% were severely lame, unable to bear weight on at least one limb. The severity of their condition was such that 32 sheep had to be euthanised to end their suffering. Photographs presented during the trial depicted the shocking and distressing conditions in which the animals were kept, illustrating the extent of their pain and neglect.

Animal health officers from Gwynedd’s Trading Standards Service, along with veterinary experts from the Animal & Plant Health Agency (APHA), conducted multiple visits to the farm during July and August 2021. These inspections followed an anonymous tip-off from a concerned member of the public, who reported the presence of lame sheep on land at Cefn Ynysoedd. The investigation uncovered a distressing scene of animal suffering that had been ongoing for some time.

During the course of the investigation, officials faced hostility from Smith, who engaged in threatening and abusive behaviour. One of the most disturbing findings was the discovery of a collapsed ram inside a farm building. The ram was suffering from severe foot-rot, chronic skin lesions, and inflammation of the larynx, which would have caused breathing difficulties. Veterinary assessments concluded that the ram was enduring unnecessary pain and required euthanasia to prevent further suffering.

A post-mortem examination of the ram revealed that its skin lesions had likely been present for several months. The investigation also uncovered multiple other sheep suffering from irreversible foot lesions, which could have been treatable if identified earlier. Some sheep were found suffering from fly strike, with live maggots present in their feet, further underscoring the neglect.

In sentencing, Smith received concurrent suspended prison terms—26 weeks for six offences under the Animal Welfare Act and 12 weeks for two additional offences. He was also ordered to complete a 20-hour rehabilitation course. Financial penalties included a fine of £400 for breaches of the Animal By-Product Regulation, along with costs amounting to £4,475 and a victim surcharge of £128. Additionally, Smith was disqualified from owning, keeping, transporting, or dealing in farmed animals for five years, a ban set to expire in June 2028.

This case has brought to light the critical importance of animal welfare standards and the consequences of neglect, serving as a stark reminder of the responsibilities held by those who care for farm animals in Llanfaglan and beyond.