A couple from Orcheston, near Salisbury, has been sentenced for animal welfare offences and for breaching a court-issued animal ban after cattle were found living in squalid conditions at their farm.
Michael Babey, 69, received a 20-week prison sentence, suspended for two years, at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court. He was also fined and ordered to pay costs. His wife, Julia Babey, 52, was handed a 12-month community order, fined, and also instructed to pay costs and a victim surcharge.
Despite being banned from keeping all animals, except for cats, dogs, and cockatiels for ten years, the couple continued to care for cattle kept at their farm in Tanners Lane, Shrewton. This disregarded previous disqualifications from keeping cattle and cows, and equines.
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The charges included keeping animals in unsanitary conditions, with inadequate space and unfit water supply. The couple’s neglect of the cattle’s welfare was evident during multiple inspections and visits, leading to their conviction.
Parvis Khansari, corporate director place at Wiltshire Council, emphasized the council’s commitment to ensuring proper animal welfare and urged anyone with livestock welfare concerns to contact the dedicated animal health team at Wiltshire Council.
The sentencing of Mr. and Mrs. Babey serves as a strong message against animal mistreatment and the breach of animal welfare laws in Wiltshire, reflecting the council’s zero-tolerance stance towards such offenses.