MARK MABEY FROM LYCHETT MATRAVERS SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOGS IN DORSET

Mark Amos Mabey, a resident of Bridge Close, Peatons Lane, Lytchett Matravers, Poole, with the postcode BH16 6HW, has been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a total of 11 dogs kept in deplorable conditions. The conviction comes after a thorough investigation by Dorset Police, which uncovered severe neglect and cruelty inflicted upon the animals under his care.

On November 26, 2022, police officers from the Dorset Police Rural Crime Team conducted a welfare check at Mabey's residence. During this visit, they discovered 11 dogs living in extremely poor conditions, with signs of neglect and suffering. The animals were examined by a veterinarian, who confirmed that they were enduring significant distress and health issues due to their living environment. As a result, the police seized all 11 dogs under the provisions of the Animal Welfare Act, ensuring their immediate safety and care.

Mabey, who has a history of wildlife-related offenses and is part of a well-known traveller family in Dorset, pleaded guilty to 11 counts of causing unnecessary suffering to protected animals. His previous criminal record for wildlife crimes added weight to the case, highlighting a pattern of disregard for animal welfare.

In court, Mabey received a sentence that included a five-month custodial term, which was suspended for 18 months, along with a five-month tagging order and 60 hours of unpaid community work. Additionally, he was handed a seven-year ban from owning, keeping, participating in the keeping of, or otherwise controlling any dogs. This ban, which is set to expire in October 2030, is a strict measure designed to prevent him from harming animals in the future. The order also prohibits him from being involved in the sale, exchange, or transportation of dogs, or from allowing any dogs to be kept at properties under his control.

PC Sebastian Haggett, a member of the Dorset Police Rural Crime Team, commented on the case, stating, "Mabey was responsible for causing unnecessary suffering to a significant number of dogs. As part of our proactive work, we have ensured that all the dogs have since been rehomed and are now in caring environments. I am pleased that the disqualification order was granted for such an extended period, as it is a vital legal tool to protect animals from further harm. I urge the public to contact Dorset Police if they suspect Mabey or anyone else is violating the terms of this order."

It is noteworthy that several individuals associated with Mabey, including family members and close associates, were initially charged alongside him. These included Lee Anthony Mabey, Lewis Todd Longstaffe, Tani Mabey, Jay-Lee Arnold, and Kylie Melissa Davies. However, charges against Lee Mabey, Jay-Lee Arnold, and Kylie Davies were ultimately dropped after the prosecution decided not to proceed with evidence against them. Notably, Tani Mabey was convicted of cruelty to pygmy hedgehogs, further emphasizing the pattern of animal neglect within the group.

In summary, this case underscores the ongoing efforts of Dorset Police to combat animal cruelty and highlights the importance of legal measures such as disqualification orders to prevent repeat offenses. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicions of animal abuse to authorities, ensuring that offenders like Mabey are held accountable and that vulnerable animals are protected from harm.