A mother and her two daughters involved in an illegal puppy breeding business have been ordered to pay back £60,000 after making £125,000 from the operation. Julie Pearce, along with her daughters Rosalie Pearce and Kaylie Adams, were found running the puppy farm in “atrocious” conditions at their family home. When authorities raided the property on Glyn Terrace in Fochriw, they discovered dozens of dogs living in filthy rooms with limited access to water, light, and fresh air.
The trio sold the puppies online, falsely claiming they were from family pets, when in reality, they were part of a large-scale puppy farming operation. The court heard that many dogs had matted coats, were infested with fleas, and lacked socialization. The defendants were remorseful for the situation at the property, but the conditions were deemed unacceptable.
Rosalie Pearce and Kaylie Adams pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to the illegal breeding business, causing suffering to animals, and failing to meet welfare needs. They received suspended prison sentences and were ordered to complete unpaid work and rehabilitation. Julie Pearce also pleaded guilty and received a suspended prison sentence. All three were banned from keeping animals for ten years.
A Proceeds of Crime Act hearing determined the financial benefits each defendant received from the illegal operation. Julie Pearce was ordered to pay £60,000, Rosalie Pearce £59,674, and Kaylie Adams £34,487 within three months or face imprisonment. The court highlighted the cruelty and neglect the dogs faced in the care of the defendants, leading to the strict penalties imposed.
The shocking discovery of the illegal puppy farm and subsequent legal action serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding animal welfare laws and preventing such operations from exploiting animals for profit. The case underscores the need for stringent regulations and enforcement to protect vulnerable animals from abuse and neglect in breeding facilities.