DAVID AND MARILYN GOVAN OF ROYSTON HIT WITH HEAVY FINES OVER DOG HOARDING AND ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR

In a case that has drawn significant attention from local authorities and animal welfare groups, David Govan, born on November 19, 1950, and his wife Marilyn Govan, born on September 3, 1953, both residents of Windmill Close in Royston, Hertfordshire, have been found guilty of serious antisocial conduct related to their extensive dog hoarding situation.

Neighbors in the Royston area, particularly those living near the Govan residence on Hay Green, had repeatedly lodged complaints about the couple’s disruptive behaviour. These complaints detailed persistent noise disturbances caused by the dogs, including incessant howling and barking that disturbed the peace of the community. Additionally, residents reported the unpleasant smell of dog faeces emanating from the property, which was also noted to be poorly maintained, with dogs escaping from the premises on multiple occasions.

The local council responded to these concerns by issuing a formal notice, giving the Govan couple a two-month period to reduce the number of dogs and, consequently, the noise levels. Despite this, Marilyn Govan contacted council officials to express her dissatisfaction with the treatment they were receiving. She explicitly stated that they would not comply with the directive to reduce their dog population, indicating a firm stance against the authorities’ orders.

Following a second assessment that confirmed the noise levels remained unacceptably high, authorities took decisive action. The RSPCA, in collaboration with the police, conducted a raid on the property, resulting in the seizure of all 38 dogs kept at the residence. The operation was prompted by concerns raised by a neighbor regarding the welfare of the animals, highlighting the severity of the situation and the potential suffering endured by the dogs.

In addition to seizing the animals, the local authority sought to impose a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) against the Govan couple. This order restricts them from keeping more than three dogs at any given time on their property. It also prohibits them from having any female dogs on the land and mandates that any barking, howling, yapping, or whining by the dogs must cease immediately. Furthermore, the couple is required to collect, bag, and dispose of all dog faeces properly, ensuring the property is kept hygienic and less disruptive to the community.

Although the Govan family has since sold their property on Hay Green and moved to Windmill Close, it is understood that they still retain custody of the dogs. The legal proceedings culminated in a substantial financial penalty, with the couple ordered to pay fines and costs totaling £18,249. This case underscores the importance of animal welfare laws and the community’s vigilance in addressing antisocial behaviour that affects the quality of life for residents and the wellbeing of animals alike.