Dozens of Animals Seized from Repeated Animal Cruelty Offender in Victoria

RSPCA Seizes 37 Animals in Ararat; Individual Accused of Repeatedly Violating Animal Ownership Bans

RSPCA Victoria inspectors have seized 13 horses and 24 cats from a property in Ararat, western Victoria, during a compliance check. This action follows the individual's conviction in 2023 on multiple animal cruelty charges. This marks the fourth reported instance where the individual has allegedly violated a court order restricting animal ownership.

Over the past decade, RSPCA Victoria has removed more than 400 animals from the individual's care.

Some of the seized horses and cats exhibited signs of illness and were found in poor living conditions. The animals have been transported to an RSPCA Victoria shelter for assessment and urgent veterinary treatment.

RSPCA Calls for Stronger Measures

Michelle Green, RSPCA Victoria chief inspector, stated that the scale of the animal cruelty is significant. She noted that the individual continues to keep and acquire animals, as well as mistreat them, despite being banned from owning or being in charge of more than five cats and five horses. The organization stated it has utilized all available legal measures, but the individual has reportedly disregarded animal care advice, legislation, and multiple court orders.

Dr. Liz Walker, RSPCA Victoria chief executive, called for stronger penalties for animal cruelty offenses. She highlighted that despite convictions and repeated breaches of court orders, the individual continues to offend.

A Decade of Violations: Previous Convictions and Court Orders

In July 2023, the individual, then 66, was convicted of 54 charges of animal cruelty. These charges included failing to provide adequate food and drink, confining animals in a manner likely to cause pain and suffering, and failing to provide veterinary care.

Initially, a permanent ban from owning or being in charge of horses and ponies was imposed. This was later reduced on appeal to a five-year ban from owning or being in charge of more than five horses. The individual also faces a lifetime disqualification from owning or being in charge of more than five cats.

Previous convictions for similar charges have been reported in both Victoria and New South Wales.