STEVE AND NATALIE ALKER FROM LLANELLI SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC ANIMAL ABUSE IN WATERLOO STREET AND MASYDERI

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Steve and Natalie Alker, residents of Llanelli, have been found guilty of severe animal welfare violations linked to their properties on Waterloo Street and Masyderi. The case, which has garnered significant attention, highlights the appalling conditions in which their pets were kept and the failure of the owners to meet basic needs.

Animal welfare inspectors from the RSPCA conducted a thorough investigation into the Alker household after receiving reports of neglect. They discovered that the living environment for the animals—comprising dogs, cats, a hamster, and a snake—was in a state of extreme filth and squalor. The inspectors found that there were months' worth of accumulated faeces in every room of the property, creating an environment that was utterly unsuitable for any living creature.

The investigation revealed that the conditions persisted over an extended period, with the animals enduring neglect that severely compromised their health and well-being. Natalie Alker faced three charges of animal welfare offences, primarily for her failure to ensure that her dog, five cats, and hamster were provided with a suitable environment that met their basic needs. Despite the obvious neglect, she did not take any steps to improve the animals' living conditions.

Steve Alker was also charged with similar offences. In addition to neglecting the general welfare of his pets, he was specifically accused of failing to provide adequate heating for his pet snake. The investigation uncovered that the snake was suffering due to the owner’s neglect, with Steve Alker failing to address the causes of the animal’s poor condition, thereby causing unnecessary suffering.

Both individuals pleaded guilty to the charges at Carmarthen Magistrates’ Court. The court heard that their failure to meet the animals’ needs was a clear violation of animal welfare laws. Steve Alker, who is known in the area as a former darts champion nicknamed 'The Snakeman,' has a history that now includes this conviction for cruelty.

Keith Hogben, an inspector from the RSPCA, expressed his concern about the case, stating, “These poor animals were living in an environment that was completely unsuitable for them. The conditions inside the property were appalling, with months' worth of faeces in every room. We always urge potential owners to thoroughly research what is required in the care of exotic animals before taking one on, as owners need to make sure they can provide the appropriate environment.”

Following the court proceedings, the animals involved in the case were rehomed to suitable environments where they could receive proper care. The Alkers were sentenced to a 12-month community order, which includes 70 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, they were ordered to pay costs of £360 each and are banned from keeping any animals for the next ten years, with the ban set to expire in April 2026.