BRITON FERRY MAN BANNED FROM KEEPING ANIMALS FOR SEVEN YEARS AFTER CATS FOUND LIVING AMONG RUBBISH
A man from Briton Ferry has been prohibited from owning animals for a period of seven years after authorities discovered three cats and two kittens residing amid rubbish and unsafe conditions inside his flat.Jordan Brian Saunders, 29, of Victoria Street, appeared before Swansea Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, June 3, after admitting to a charge under the Animal Welfare Act.
He confessed to neglecting the needs of three cats—Arianna, Carlos, and Cole—and two kittens by failing to provide them with an appropriate environment.
As a result, Saunders received a seven-year ban from keeping any animals, was sentenced to a 12-month community order including up to 10 days of rehabilitative activities, and was required to pay a £200 fine along with £400 in court costs.
Additionally, a directive was issued for any further animals in his care to be placed under the RSPCA’s supervision.
The court was informed that RSPCA officers had previously visited Saunders’ home multiple times.
Deputy Chief Inspector Gemma Black visited the property on January 14 this year to assess the animals’ wellbeing.
“Looking through the letterbox and gaps in the windows, I became concerned once again about the animals’ living conditions,” she stated in a written submission to the court.
“From the letterbox, I observed two small black kittens playing among the rubbish on the floor.
I saw empty food and water dishes, with no actual food or water present, and debris scattered throughout the area.” When Saunders did not answer the door, police were called to assist.
He initially refused access but later agreed to a visit two days later.
On January 16, accompanied by animal rescue officer Paula Milton, DCI Black described the scene as “overwhelmingly smelly.” “There was a strong ammonia odor that irritated my nose and eyes from within the front room,” she recalled.
“The floor was bare, hard concrete, stained with dirt and grime.
Some areas were clear, but other sections were cluttered with rubbish, hazards, and animal waste.” Saunders surrendered three of the cats to the RSPCA, while Arianna and Carlos were taken into police custody.
A veterinarian confirmed all five animals were in good physical condition, but indicated the living arrangements were “not suitable for the cats,” despite warnings and advice previously given.
“The owner failed in their duty of care by not ensuring the animals’ basic needs were met,” the vet added.
The court was told that Saunders expressed remorse and regret for his actions.
Fortunately, the kittens and a one-year-old cat named Cole have been rehomed.
Arianna, age nine, and three-year-old Carlos have also been surrendered to the RSPCA and will find new homes.
After sentencing, DCI Black commented: “Our approach is often to work with owners through advice and educational efforts, and we conduct significant preventative work.” “Every animal deserves to be treated with kindness and respect.
Pet owners must ensure all their animals’ welfare needs are satisfied.”
