KRISTINA BARTON'S ILLEGAL PUPPY BREEDING IN CROSS HANDS LANDELLI AND LLANELLI REVEALED

Kristina Barton, born on August 18, 1995, and residing at Heol Dinefwr in Foelgastell, Cross Hands, Llanelli SA14 7EH, has been found guilty of operating an unlicensed dog breeding business. The case, which drew significant attention from local authorities and animal welfare groups, culminated in her being ordered to pay a substantial fine of £26,700 after she admitted to three charges under the Animal Welfare Act at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court.

In addition to her illegal puppy breeding activities, Barton is known for managing a pony event enterprise called Carmarthenshire Party Ponies & Therapy Pets. The investigation into her breeding operations was initiated following numerous complaints from concerned neighbours in the Cross Hands area, which is part of Llanelli in Carmarthenshire. These complaints prompted a detailed inquiry by Carmarthenshire County Council and Dyfed-Powys Police.

The investigation was triggered in April 2020 when Barton first inquired about obtaining a dog breeding license. Although she was provided with an information pack outlining the legal requirements, subsequent reports from local residents raised serious concerns. These included allegations of illegal dog breeding, unauthorized construction of kennels and stables, excessive noise from barking dogs, and instances of dogs straying outside her property and fouling in public areas.

By May 2021, Barton’s activities came under further scrutiny when an advertisement appeared on the Pets4Homes website, showcasing a litter of puppies she was offering for sale. This prompted a warning letter from Carmarthenshire County Council, emphasizing the need for her to obtain the proper licensing. Despite this, her operations continued, and the situation escalated when Dyfed-Powys Police received additional complaints in April 2022.

Further investigations, including a Data Protection Act request to Pets4Homes, revealed that Barton had bred as many as nine litters of puppies during this period. Between May 17, 2021, and July 30, 2023, she listed four individual dogs for sale, all without the necessary dog breeding license. This evidence confirmed her ongoing breach of licensing laws despite previous warnings and advisories.

The case was brought before Swansea Crown Court, where it was established that Barton profited approximately £31,000 from her illegal puppy sales. The authorities also pursued proceeds of crime proceedings, aiming to recover the financial gains obtained through her unlawful activities.

In her sentencing, Barton received a 12-month conditional discharge, meaning she will not serve time unless she commits another offence within that period. She was also ordered to pay a total of £26,721.12 in fines, along with £500 in legal costs and a £22 surcharge. The case highlights ongoing concerns about illegal puppy breeding and the importance of enforcing animal welfare laws in the Cross Hands and Llanelli areas.