LEE FISHER FROM MARCH SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO PIGS IN HASLEHURST CLOSE

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Lee John Fisher, a resident of Haslehurst Close in March, Cambridgeshire, was found guilty in 2019 of causing unnecessary suffering to pigs through neglect and poor treatment. Born in March 1989, Fisher faced serious charges under the Animal Welfare Act after authorities uncovered the appalling conditions in which the pigs were kept.

Fisher admitted to ten separate offences related to the inadequate diet and lack of veterinary care provided to the animals. The investigation revealed that the pigs were left to suffer in cramped, unsanitary conditions, with some of them lying dead alongside living animals, highlighting the severity of neglect. The situation was so dire that a total of 103 pigs were rescued and subsequently placed into the care of the RSPCA, which took immediate action following the discovery.

The case came to light in August 2018 when RSPCA Inspector Alex Coghlan visited the site after receiving an anonymous tip accompanied by photographs. Upon arrival, she described the scene as overwhelming, noting the strong smell that permeated the area. Inspector Coghlan reported that the pigs were confined in cramped pens, with only one pen containing any water. When the younger pigs were offered a drink, they were frantic, clearly desperate for hydration. The inspector expressed her deep concern for the welfare of the animals, emphasizing the distressing conditions she encountered.

Fisher’s sentencing included two custodial sentences of 18 weeks each and eight sentences of 9 weeks, all to run concurrently. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £600 in costs and was disqualified from keeping any animals for a period of 15 years. The case drew significant attention from local media outlets such as Cambs Times and Peterborough Today, highlighting the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglecting these vulnerable creatures.