TANAYA ROBINS OF TORQUAY CONVICTED FOR HORRIFIC ANIMAL NEGLECT IN WARREN HILL FLAT

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Torquay, Tanaya Jade Robins, also known by her maiden name Tanaya Ellis, has been found guilty of severe animal welfare violations. The incident took place at her residence in Warren Hill, Torquay, with the court hearing revealing the appalling conditions in which she kept her pets.

On Saturday, March 23, 2024, authorities from the RSPCA and local police responded to reports of animal distress at a flat on Temperance Street, Torquay. The reports indicated that one dog had killed another, prompting a swift investigation. Upon entering the property, officers discovered a scene of utter neglect and suffering. Inside, five dogs and eight cats were found living in squalid conditions, confined in cages or scrambling for hiding spots amid a mess of animal waste and debris.

Animal rescue officer Stephen Findlow, who attended the scene, described the overwhelming stench of ammonia, urine, and feces that greeted him before he even stepped inside. He recounted seeing cats desperately seeking refuge in hidden corners and dogs barking in distress, clearly suffering from the conditions they were subjected to. The floors were covered with piles of fresh feces, some of which had been trodden into the carpet, alongside older, moldy excrement, indicating prolonged neglect. The only area that appeared somewhat clean was a single cat scratch post, which stood out amid the chaos.

Among the animals seized were a distressed Belgian Malinois named Enza, two huskies called Luna and Nanuck, a large breed dog named Azoura, and a bull breed dog named Mischa. The animals were found in various states of distress: a Malinois crated next to a cluttered bed, two huskies barricaded in one room, and another room housing a locked-in XL Bully. All were taken into the care of the RSPCA for treatment and rehabilitation.

The court heard that Robins had been battling mental health issues and considered her dogs her support system, which may have contributed to her neglectful behavior. RSPCA inspector Beccy Wadey, who led the investigation, emphasized the importance of proper care, stating, “Animals rely on their owners to provide a safe and suitable living environment. They deserve respect and kindness, and their needs must be met. Sadly, these animals were neglected and deprived of the care they needed and deserved.”

Robins faced charges under Section 9(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, with evidence showing she failed to provide her pets with clean water, a safe environment, protection from harm, and the opportunity to exhibit normal behavior. The court sentenced her to pay £600 in costs and imposed a ten-year ban on owning animals, which will remain in effect until April 2035.

This case has brought to light the critical importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect, serving as a stark reminder to pet owners across Torquay and beyond about their responsibilities towards their animals.