LEE THOMPSON'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY IN BASILDON AND WESTCLIFF REVEALED

Lee Thompson, a resident of King Edward Terrace on High Road in Laindon, Basildon, has been found guilty of heinous animal cruelty involving the illegal possession and neglect of over 50 exotic creatures. The case highlights a disturbing pattern of illegal wildlife keeping and neglect that spanned several years and locations within Essex.

Thompson, who is often referred to by the nickname 'Snake,' was discovered to be housing a wide array of dangerous and exotic animals in deplorable conditions. His illegal activities came to light after police investigations uncovered multiple instances of animal suffering and illegal possession of wild species. The authorities charged him with two counts of breaching a ban on keeping dangerous wild animals, two counts of causing unnecessary suffering to protected animals, and two counts of keeping dangerous wild animals without a valid license.

The first significant discovery was made in November 2015 when officers visited a unit rented by Thompson on Cranes Farm Road in Basildon. Inside, they found a shocking collection of 45 exotic animals, all in poor health and living in cramped, unsanitary conditions. The animals included 35 different species of snakes, a Nile lizard, seven species of spiders, a bullfrog, and a snapping turtle. The scene was described as one of neglect and cruelty, with many animals suffering due to inadequate care.

Further investigations led to a second search in January 2018, when police officers raided a bedroom rented by Thompson in a house on Burdett Avenue, Westcliff. During this search, they discovered a 4-foot-long spectacled Caiman confined in a makeshift pen. The officers also found 23 snakes and a fat-tail scorpion. Tragically, seven of the snakes had already died and were left to decompose, underscoring the neglect and poor conditions in which these animals were kept.

Thompson's history with illegal wildlife possession is not new. He had previously been convicted in 2009 for keeping dangerous wild animals without a license and was subsequently banned from doing so for ten years. Despite this, he continued to flout the law, demonstrating a blatant disregard for animal welfare and legal regulations.

An Essex Police spokesperson issued a statement condemning Thompson's actions, saying, “Thompson kept wild animals in appalling conditions, ultimately causing 17 to die. Not only did he keep them without a license but showed no care for their wellbeing or their survival. He then twice attempted to evade justice.” The police also expressed gratitude to the RSPCA, particularly inspector Rebecca Benson, for their assistance in rescuing and caring for the remaining animals. The case underscores the importance of animal welfare enforcement and the ongoing efforts to combat illegal wildlife trade and cruelty in Essex.