A shocking discovery of neglected animals in Kingston leads to legal action against their owner
Kingston: A woman’s garden turned into a nightmare for animals. Inspectors found dozens of dead and suffering creatures, including dogs and pigs. It all started when neighbors complained about the awful noise and smell coming from Micaela Anderson-Letts’ home.
After the shocking find in May 2020, it was revealed that she was selling puppies without a license and even importing them illegally. She went as far as to fake pet passports to get them into the country. Can you believe that?
In total, over 80 animals were rescued, including 23 puppies and dogs. Many of them needed special care and treatment. It was a tough situation for those poor animals.
Thanks to a joint effort by the City of London Corporation and the Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames, Anderson-Letts faced serious charges under the Animal Welfare Act. She was found guilty of 15 counts, including causing unnecessary suffering to animals and selling pets without a license.
She got sentenced to between five and eight months in jail, plus a 24-month sentence for another animal welfare offense. They also made her do 300 hours of community service and attend rehabilitation sessions. But her jail time was suspended for two years since she has a young child to care for.
On top of that, she’s banned for life from owning any animals or getting licenses related to them. Thankfully, all the animals that were rescued found new homes, except for one little chick. Dogs Trust stepped in to help rehome the puppies and dogs.
Mary Durcan, who heads the City of London Corporation’s Port Health and Environmental Services Committee, called it a shocking case of cruelty. She emphasized that they won’t tolerate anyone mistreating animals and will take strong action against such behavior.
Councillor Afy Afilaka also spoke about the extensive investigation, highlighting the unnecessary suffering the animals endured. He reassured everyone that they’re committed to maintaining high standards of animal welfare in the borough.