BARRY JOHN ROWE OF ST DAY SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY AND ILLEGAL BREEDING IN REDRUTH

Barry John Rowe, a man born in 1950 and residing at Lower Tulgullow Vean Farm, Little Beside, St Day, near Redruth, has been found guilty of multiple charges related to animal cruelty and illegal dog breeding activities. The conviction stems from a series of disturbing conditions in which Rowe kept his dogs, as well as his failure to meet their basic needs.

Investigations revealed that Rowe maintained a number of dogs in deplorable conditions, with many confined in cages filled with urine and faeces. The environment was characterized by unsanitary conditions, including dust and hair in water bowls, and a complete lack of proper bedding. The floors of the premises were heavily soiled with urine and faeces, and a persistent foul smell permeated the area. Dogs were housed in cages on concrete floors, deprived of toys or stimulation, which is indicative of neglect and a disregard for their welfare.

One of the key cases involved a female cockerpoo named Bailey, who suffered from an ear infection. Instead of seeking veterinary care, Rowe attempted to treat her with non-prescribed medication. When her condition failed to improve, he continued to neglect her medical needs, which contributed to her suffering. This blatant neglect was a significant factor in the court's decision to convict Rowe of causing unnecessary suffering to the animal.

Rowe’s illegal breeding operation was also a central aspect of his conviction. He was charged with breeding dogs without the necessary authority and failing to take appropriate steps to ensure the welfare of his animals. Despite claiming that he only earned about £1,300 from selling puppies at £100 each, purportedly to cover microchipping costs, the court dismissed this explanation. It was established that Rowe operated a substantial breeding enterprise, which was conducted without a license, in clear violation of the law.

Further scrutiny of Rowe’s activities revealed that he had a prior conviction for animal cruelty, underscoring a pattern of neglect and abuse. The authorities’ inspection in July 2019 uncovered the severe conditions in which the dogs were kept, leading to the seizure of multiple animals and the subsequent legal proceedings.

During sentencing, the district judge emphasized that Rowe’s offences were committed in a commercial context, with full knowledge that he lacked the necessary licensing. The judge described the suffering inflicted upon the dogs as significant, given the state in which they were found and the conditions at the time of seizure. Despite the seriousness of the crimes, the judge took into account Rowe’s age, mental health, and potential for rehabilitation when determining the sentence.

As a result, Rowe was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison, suspended for two years, and ordered to pay costs amounting to £9,336. Additionally, he was banned from keeping dogs for a period of ten years, a restriction that will remain in effect until April 2031. The case highlights ongoing concerns about illegal breeding and animal cruelty in the Cornwall area, with authorities emphasizing the importance of enforcement and animal welfare protections.