WAYNE CLEMINSON'S ILLEGAL PUPPY TRADING IN MORECAMBE LEADS TO COURT FINE AND BAN

Wayne Cleminson, a resident of Wingate Avenue in Morecambe, was found guilty in 2021 of engaging in the illegal trade of puppies, a crime that has garnered significant attention from animal protection authorities and the local community alike.

Cleminson’s involvement in this unlawful activity centered around the unlicensed sale of various dog breeds, including Golden Retrievers, Cockapoos, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. His actions came to light during an investigation conducted by Animal Protection Services, a registered charity dedicated to combating organized animal cruelty and enforcing laws related to the sale of pets.

The investigation revealed that Cleminson was actively selling puppies without the necessary licensing, a violation that not only breaches animal welfare regulations but also undermines legitimate breeders and sellers who operate within the law. The authorities uncovered that he was exploiting the demand for popular dog breeds by offering them for sale illegally, often through informal channels that bypass regulatory oversight.

A spokesperson from Animal Protection Services described Cleminson as an “opportunist” who took advantage of the system to turn a quick profit. The charity’s representative emphasized that court fines for such offenses are typically calculated based on the offender’s weekly income, highlighting that Cleminson’s financial situation was reasonably well off. The spokesperson pointed out that Cleminson had made more than £22,000 in just two months from his puppy trading activities, illustrating how lucrative and tempting this illegal trade can be for those willing to exploit the system.

In the court proceedings, Cleminson was ordered to pay a fine exceeding £1,200 to the court. Additionally, he received a ban from dealing in canines for a period of one year, a restriction that was set to expire in March 2022. This penalty was intended to prevent him from continuing his illegal activities and to serve as a deterrent to others considering similar actions.

The case underscores ongoing concerns about unlicensed pet sales in the North West region, with authorities urging the public to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity related to the illegal trade of animals. The enforcement actions against Cleminson serve as a reminder of the importance of adhering to animal welfare laws and the consequences faced by those who choose to ignore them.