DANGEROUS SHEEP ABUSER DAVID GRANT FROM MATLOCK FACES JUSTICE IN DERBYSHIRE

David Richard Grant, a resident of Smedley Street in Matlock, has been brought to justice after a disturbing case of animal cruelty involving his smallholding in Bakewell, Derbyshire Dales. Born in 1973, Grant’s name became associated with neglect and suffering inflicted upon a flock of sheep under his care.

Grant, who had a prior conviction for animal cruelty, pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to the animals. The investigation into his conduct was initiated following reports from concerned members of the local community, which prompted authorities to act.

On February 26, a joint operation involving police officers from the Derbyshire Rural Crime Team and officials from Derbyshire County Council’s Trading Standards department visited Grant’s property in Bakewell. The conditions they uncovered were appalling and far below acceptable standards for animal welfare.

Investigating officer Constable Karl Webster described the scene: “When visiting Grant’s smallholding in Bakewell, police and trading standards officers found conditions to be woefully substandard, with far too many animals being kept in inadequate facilities. A flock of over 40 sheep was housed in a small shed with contaminated bedding, which had led to a high incidence of lameness caused by foot-rot. Many of the sheep were extremely thin, clearly suffering from malnutrition and neglect.”

Webster further explained that the attending veterinarian had to make the difficult decision to euthanize four of the sheep to end their suffering. Numerous other animals were found to be in need of urgent medical treatment, and some were living in conditions that exacerbated their health issues.

The court heard that Grant had failed to provide proper living conditions, adequate veterinary care, or treatment for his animals, resulting in pain, suffering, and neglect. The investigation revealed a pattern of disregard for animal welfare, with Grant neglecting his responsibilities as a caretaker.

Hillside Animal Sanctuary, which played a crucial role in uncovering the neglect, confirmed that they received reports indicating Grant was keeping animals in terrible conditions. An investigator from the sanctuary visited the site, filmed the neglected and lame sheep, and documented the distressing state of the animals. These findings were subsequently shared with the Derbyshire Rural Crime Team, leading to the legal proceedings against Grant.

In court, Grant was sentenced to ten weeks of custody, suspended for 12 months. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 180 hours of unpaid community service, pay a victim surcharge of £115, and cover costs amounting to £85. As part of his punishment, Grant was banned from owning or keeping any livestock for a period of ten years.

This case highlights the importance of community vigilance and the collaborative efforts of law enforcement and animal welfare organizations in combating cruelty. The authorities emphasized that the investigation was a direct result of local residents’ concerns and the diligent work of the Hillside Animal Sanctuary team, which provided vital evidence to secure the conviction.

Grant’s case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences faced by those who neglect their responsibilities towards animals, and it underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and enforcement to protect vulnerable creatures from suffering.