JOHNBOY HARROP FROM BISHOP AUCKLAND FACES CRIMINAL CHARGES OVER HORRIFIC ANIMAL CONDITIONS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Bishop Auckland, Durham, Johnboy Harrop, a known resident of Green Lane Travellers Site, was found guilty of severe animal welfare violations. Harrop, born around 1980, was involved in the illegal keeping and mistreatment of numerous dogs and puppies, which were discovered living in deplorable conditions that have been described as 'vile' and 'disgusting.'

On April 3, 2014, authorities from the police and the RSPCA conducted a thorough inspection of Hostel Farm, located on Addison Road in Toronto, near Bishop Auckland, with the postcode DL14 7RN. The investigation revealed a large number of animals suffering in environments that raised serious concerns about their health and well-being. The scene was documented with video footage, which was later presented in court, showing the appalling state of the animals and their living conditions.

Harrop, who is part of a traveller family and has a history of animal abuse, was previously jailed in 2013 for similar offences. He was also banned from keeping horses for a decade. During the recent proceedings, Harrop admitted to three charges under the Animal Welfare Act, specifically for failing to take reasonable steps to meet the needs of the animals in his care.

The footage shown to Darlington magistrates depicted ferrets confined in cages filled with faeces and waste, surrounded by splintered wood with protruding nails, creating a hazardous environment. A large dog, believed to be a Central Asian Shepherd, was kept in a building described as 'completely disgusting and unsafe.' Numerous other dogs, including a saluki, lurchers, and spaniels, were found living in conditions that could only be described as appalling. The animals had no access to clean, dry flooring, and their enclosures were soaked with urine and waste, creating a sewer-like environment. Inspector Caz Doe, from the RSPCA, commented on the footage, stating, 'The dogs are just living in a sewer of their own waste.'

Prosecutor Kevin Campbell highlighted that veterinary assessments confirmed the animals were being kept in unhygienic conditions, which posed a significant risk of infectious diseases. The neglect and poor environment could have led to serious health issues for the animals involved.

On the other hand, Simon Walker, representing Harrop, stated that there were approximately 65 dogs on the farm, including some puppies. He noted that 13 of these animals had been removed from the premises. Additionally, another family member, Jim Harrop, born in July 1977 and also residing at Green Lane Caravan Site, faced animal welfare charges that were ultimately dismissed due to lack of evidence. Jim Harrop denied any wrongdoing.

In sentencing, the court imposed a 12-month community order requiring Harrop to complete 150 hours of unpaid work. Furthermore, he was given a five-year ban on keeping dogs, which expired in 2020. This case underscores the ongoing issues of animal cruelty and neglect within certain parts of the traveller community in Bishop Auckland and highlights the importance of strict enforcement of animal welfare laws.