COLIN AND RUTH WILLIAMS FROM FLEUR DE LIS CAUGHT IN HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY SCANDAL IN BLACKWOOD

In a disturbing case of animal cruelty, Colin Williams, born around 1977, and Ruth Williams, née Ruth Sanders, born approximately in 1972, both residents of Glanddu Road in Fleur de Lis, Blackwood with the postal code NP12 3XT, have been found guilty of multiple offences related to the mistreatment and illegal breeding of dogs. The couple’s actions came under intense scrutiny following a detailed investigation carried out by Caerphilly County Borough Council’s trading standards department, which uncovered a series of serious violations involving the welfare of numerous dogs.

In June 2023, authorities, including officers from Gwent Police, a veterinary surgeon, and officials from neighboring councils, executed a warrant at the Williams’ residence. The investigation was prompted by suspicions that the property was being used as an unlicensed breeding facility for dogs. Upon entering the premises, the team discovered a heartbreaking scene: three French bulldogs, two British bulldogs, and two Cavalier King Charles spaniels were confined in cramped pens within a single room, with no access to water. One of the pens, which housed two additional dogs, was tucked away in an alcove beneath the stairs, highlighting the neglect and poor conditions the animals endured.

The conditions in which the dogs were kept were appalling. The animals had insufficient space to move freely, lacked mental stimulation, and were unable to exhibit normal behaviors. All nine dogs showed signs of severe suffering, suffering from various health issues including skin infections, eye problems, ear infections, and airway diseases. The veterinary assessment confirmed that the dogs’ conditions were a direct result of neglect and poor treatment.

Following the veterinary examination, the dogs were seized from the property and transferred into the care of Hope Rescue, an organization dedicated to animal welfare and rehoming. Since their rescue, the dogs have been rehabilitated and successfully rehomed, giving them a second chance at life.

Colin Williams, who previously operated a business called Valley Ultrasound and Microchipping and is currently employed as a window cleaner, faced multiple charges. He pleaded guilty to 17 counts under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which addresses cruelty and neglect towards animals. Additionally, he admitted to one charge under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 for failing to declare himself as a breeder when advertising the sale of the dogs. Furthermore, he pleaded guilty to a charge under the Welfare of Animals (Transport) (Wales) Order 2007, related to illegally transporting two pregnant dogs to Heathrow Airport, violating the Animal Health Act 1981.

Ruth Williams also admitted to 15 cruelty charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, along with a charge under consumer protection law, reflecting her involvement in the mistreatment and illegal breeding activities.

Lyndsey Smith, the rescue and adoption manager at Hope Rescue Centre, expressed her shock at the findings. She stated, “Many of the dogs arrived with health issues, so we were stunned to discover they were still being bred from. Among the group were two very nervous Cavalier bitches who arrived together. They developed a strong bond during their foster care, and we knew we had to find them a home where they could stay together.”

In sentencing, Colin Williams was sentenced to four months in prison and received an indefinite ban from owning or caring for animals. Ruth Williams was given an eight-week prison sentence, which was suspended for 18 months, along with a ten-year ban from owning animals. The court also ordered the couple to pay costs amounting to £12,000. This case highlights the ongoing efforts of authorities to combat illegal breeding and animal cruelty in the region, emphasizing the importance of animal welfare laws and enforcement.