DENNIS THORNE OF GILLINGHAM FACES COURT OVER ANIMAL CRUELTY IN DORSET

Dennis Thorne, a resident of Kington Magna in Gillingham, Dorset, has been found guilty of multiple animal welfare violations following a thorough investigation by Dorset Council Trading Standards. Born around 1976, Thorne, who identifies as a Romany gypsy, was charged with and pleaded guilty to six separate offences related to the neglect and mistreatment of animals on his smallholding.

These offences included four violations under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, specifically for causing unnecessary suffering to a flock of approximately 30 to 40 poultry, which consisted of chickens, ducks, and geese. Additionally, he was found guilty of neglecting two goats and two ferrets, failing to provide them with proper care, adequate food, water, and suitable living conditions. One of the charges also involved his failure to inspect his animals regularly, which is a legal requirement aimed at ensuring their well-being.

Furthermore, Thorne was convicted of neglecting to tag his two goats, a legal obligation designed to prevent the spread of animal diseases. The failure to tag animals can hinder disease control efforts and is considered a serious breach of animal health regulations.

The investigation was initiated in March 2019 when Trading Standards officers visited land rented by Thorne at Okeford Fitzpaine, near Sturminster Newton. During their inspection, they uncovered a distressing scene: the carcasses of around 20 ducks, chickens, and geese scattered across the animal enclosure. The remaining poultry were found to be severely emaciated, living in filthy and unsanitary conditions that posed significant health risks.

In addition to the poultry, two goats were discovered in a small pen that lacked clean water and dry, comfortable bedding. The conditions of these animals were deplorable, with no proper care evident. Nearby, in a barn, cages containing the carcasses of two ferrets were found. The cages were filthy, and all the drinking containers inside them were empty, indicating neglect and a lack of basic animal husbandry.

Despite previous advice from Trading Standards, Thorne had failed to tag his goats, further demonstrating neglect and disregard for animal welfare laws. All animals remaining in Thorne’s possession were seized under the Animal Health Act and subsequently cared for by the RSPCA. Thorne later agreed to relinquish ownership of these animals.

The court was informed that Thorne had previously received a formal caution from the RSPCA in 2009 for causing unnecessary suffering to a horse, indicating a history of animal welfare issues.

In sentencing, Thorne was given a 14-week prison sentence, which was suspended for 12 months. He was also ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid community work and 20 days of rehabilitation. Additionally, he was required to pay a fine of £715. The court imposed a ban on Thorne from keeping any animals for a period of 10 years, a restriction that will remain in effect until November 2029.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by Dorset Council and animal welfare organizations to combat cruelty and neglect, ensuring that offenders are held accountable and that vulnerable animals receive the care they deserve.