THOMAS MARVELL AND MELL GIBSON FROM WORKSOP FACE JUSTICE FOR BADGER CRUELTY AND MORE

In a significant crackdown on animal cruelty and organized wildlife crimes, authorities have brought to justice two individuals from Worksop, Thomas Marvell and Mell Gibson, following a series of investigations conducted by the RSPCA. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and animal welfare organizations to combat illegal activities that cause suffering to both wildlife and domestic animals.

In March 2012, authorities executed warrants at properties linked to Thomas Marvell, who resides at 41 Vicars Walk, Worksop. During the raid, investigators seized a brown terrier named Milo, along with various items believed to be associated with hunting activities. The discovery of these items was part of a broader investigation into illegal hunting and badger baiting, which has been a persistent issue in the area.

Similarly, at Mell Gibson’s residence, located at 48 Shrewsbury Road, investigators uncovered three dogs, including one named Smudge. The dog was found suffering from an untreated septic wound on the side of its face, underscoring the neglect and cruelty inflicted upon animals involved in these illegal activities. Gibson’s involvement in such crimes was confirmed through the evidence collected during the investigation.

Chief Superintendent Barry Fryer, who oversees the RSPCA’s special operations unit, emphasized the importance of ongoing efforts to combat organized animal crime. He stated, “Our investigations into organised animal crime and deliberate animal cruelty are always ongoing. Every day our inspectors are following up more leads.” Fryer further warned that individuals who believe they can evade justice by turning a blind eye to the law risk severe consequences. “Both Marvell and Gibson are prime examples of what fate is likely to fall on those who think they can get away with turning a blind eye to the law and inflicting terrible suffering on both wildlife and domestic animals.”

Inspector Steve Cartwright echoed these sentiments, stressing that the prosecutions serve as a warning that animal cruelty will not be tolerated. He highlighted the natural beauty of Worksop’s rural surroundings, which are home to diverse flora and fauna that deserve respect and protection. “While wildlife and pets may not be able to speak of the pain they suffer at the hands of people, stringent mechanisms are in place to try to protect them,” he said. Cartwright also noted the importance of collaboration with partner agencies like the RSPCA to bring offenders to justice and uphold animal welfare standards.

Regarding sentencing, Thomas Marvell received a total of 16 weeks in custody—10 weeks for the killing of a badger and an additional six weeks for possession of hunting paraphernalia—both to be served consecutively. He was also handed a ten-year ban from keeping dogs, although this ban expired in September 2022. Mell Gibson was given a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £150 in costs. He was also banned from keeping dogs for five years, a ban that expired in 2017.

Additional context reveals that Marvell’s criminal record extends beyond animal cruelty. In April 2015, he was sentenced to 16 years in prison for armed robbery. Mell Gibson, whose criminal history includes motoring offences, was sentenced in October 2012 to 42 months in prison after being caught in possession of a large quantity of crack cocaine. These convictions underscore a pattern of criminal behavior that extends beyond the scope of animal cruelty, highlighting the broader issues of law enforcement in Worksop and the ongoing fight against various forms of illegal activity.