COUNCILLOR GIVEN LIFETIME BAN ON KEEPING ANIMALS AFTER WELFARE PROSECUTION
A man has been permanently barred from possessing animals following an ongoing investigation into the conditions of goats and pigs in his custody.David Wayne Erasmus admitted to violating the Animal Welfare Act, a decision that was positively received by the local authorities.
Rhys Harries, the head of Swansea Council's animal welfare team, commented: “The court’s ruling to prevent Mr.
Erasmus from ever owning animals is correct.
During multiple inspections, my officers observed animals kept in terrible conditions.” Erasmus is involved in local governance in Carmarthenshire and Swansea and was a hopeful candidate for the Sir Gaerfyrddin constituency in last month’s Senedd election, representing the pro-Welsh independence party Gwlad.
Two years prior, he ran as an independent in Gower for the general election.
Swansea Council, which led the prosecution, explained that over an extended period, officials looked into public reports of animal welfare issues and made numerous visits to Erasmus’ property on Bolgoed Road, Pontarddulais.
On these inspections, officers saw pigs and goats living in unsuitable environments.
Erasmus also acquired more animals, which were kept under similar poor conditions.
During a court hearing at Swansea Crown Court on June 4, it was detailed that Erasmus housed animals in old, windowless shipping containers filled with waste, urine, and decaying food, while outdoor pens consisted only of muddy ground.
Several pigs that were rescued from his land died shortly after being taken away.
Representing the council, Lee Reynolds stated that Erasmus’s standards of care were "deeply inadequate" and that he was "not properly prepared" to care for animals, though without any malicious intent.
The case involved allegations concerning 27 goats, kids, and pigs.
Erasmus, who is 66 and lives in Arlan Gwili, Hendy, had previously admitted to three animal welfare violations.
The court also examined two offences under the Animal By-Products (Enforcement) (Wales) Regulations, which involved the improper disposal of animal bones, skeletons, and entrails in a waterway, as well as bones, skins, and fat found on his property and in his vehicle.
Erasmus’s lawyer, Matt Murphy, explained that his client had intentions of developing a community-supported market garden but struggled to provide proper care due to issues with mental health, neurodiversity, and the emotional and financial strain following a lengthy marriage breakdown and the death of a family member.
Judge Huw Rees imposed an 18-month community order on Erasmus, which includes mental health treatment, further rehabilitation, and a lifelong ban on owning or caring for animals, with the exception of his current dog, his mother’s cat, and some chickens.
Rhys Harries highlighted the council’s dedication to animal welfare through ongoing inspections and intervention, reinforcing their commitment to protection.
Although Erasmus still serves on local councils in Carmarthenshire and Swansea, the community council acknowledged public concern but clarified they lack the authority to take direct action.
