LEE JAMES AND THE TRAGIC SNAKE ABANDONMENT IN STALYBRIDGE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Stalybridge, Lee William James, born on March 30, 1986, and residing at 49 Rayners Close, was found guilty in 2017 of neglecting a number of snakes kept at his property. The case drew significant attention due to the severe neglect and the tragic death of 13 snakes, which were left without proper care for an extended period.

It all began when the RSPCA was alerted in January 2017 by the landlord of a unit on Gorsey Mount Street, near Stockport town centre, where James was renting space to house his reptiles. The landlord reported a strong, unpleasant smell emanating from the premises, prompting an inspection by animal welfare authorities. When inspectors finally gained access to the property two weeks later, they were met with a scene of horror and neglect.

Inside, the inspectors discovered a grim situation: 13 snakes in various stages of decomposition, some so badly decayed that identification was impossible. The stench was overwhelming, indicating prolonged neglect. Among the dead were three snakes found inside a bin bag, which was infested with maggots, further highlighting the neglect and unsanitary conditions.

In addition to the deceased, six live snakes were found in the vivariums. These animals were in poor health, suffering from malnutrition and dehydration, with no food or water available to them. One of the live snakes was a venomous viper, which was seized by Stockport Council licensing officers. The remaining five, including two royal pythons, an Indian python, and a reticulated python—the world's longest snake—were taken into custody by police for further examination.

Veterinary assessments revealed that nearly all of the snakes were suffering from severe malnutrition and dehydration. Tragically, one young royal python succumbed to its condition while in veterinary care. James, who described himself as a 'self-taught' snake keeper, claimed he was in the process of re-homing the animals. However, he also admitted that he had last attended to the snakes around mid-December, just before Christmas, citing personal stress due to his father's recent cancer diagnosis and the pressures of managing his business while unwell.

James faced multiple charges, including causing unnecessary suffering to five snakes and failing to meet their basic needs. He pleaded guilty to these charges, acknowledging his neglect. The court sentenced him to 140 hours of unpaid work, ordered him to pay £1,484.92 in fines and costs, and imposed a five-year ban on keeping any reptiles—though this ban expired in 2022.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the devastating consequences of neglecting vulnerable animals in the community of Stalybridge and beyond.