NATHAN HOLLIS FROM BROMSGROVE FACES CHARGES OVER CRUELTY TO SHEEP IN WORSERHIRE

Nathan Mark Hollis, born in June 1983 and residing at 6 Harvest Close, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove B60 3QS, has been found guilty of serious animal cruelty offenses involving sheep. The case was heard at Worcester Magistrates Court on June 21, 2024, where Hollis pleaded guilty to four separate charges related to the mistreatment and improper handling of livestock.

According to court records, Hollis was responsible for keeping sheep in deplorable conditions that caused unnecessary suffering. The charges included causing unnecessary pain and distress to three sheep, a violation that highlights the neglect and poor management of the animals under his care. Additionally, Hollis admitted to failing to prevent other animals from accessing carcasses, which could have posed health risks and further indicated neglect.

He was also convicted of failing to dispose of carcasses in a timely manner, as well as improperly disposing of sheep remains in a manner not prescribed by law. These actions not only demonstrated a disregard for animal welfare but also potentially violated environmental and health regulations.

The investigation was initiated after animal health officers from Worcestershire County Council’s Trading Standards, in collaboration with the Animal Plant Health Agency and an RSPCA inspector, visited land off Withybed Lane in Inkberrow, Worcestershire. During their inspection, they discovered animals suffering from severe maggot infestations, with skin decay so advanced that the sheep were unable to stand or move properly. The condition of the animals was described as appalling, with the infestation indicating prolonged neglect.

Further examination of the surrounding land revealed multiple carcasses in various stages of decomposition, scattered across the area. Evidence of illegal disposal was also found, including a bonfire where some sheep carcasses had been burned in an attempt to conceal the remains. These findings pointed to a pattern of neglect and illegal activity related to the disposal of animal remains.

It was established that Hollis was acting as a director of TTL Agri Limited, the registered keeper of the sheep at this location. The company’s involvement underscored the seriousness of the case, as it implicated corporate responsibility in the neglect and illegal disposal practices.

In terms of sentencing, Hollis received a 12-month community order, which includes 270 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay costs amounting to £6,448.96 and a victim surcharge of £114. Furthermore, a banning order was imposed, prohibiting Hollis from any involvement with livestock for a period of five years, a restriction that will remain in effect until June 2029. The case has garnered attention from local media outlets such as the Bromsgrove Standard and Bromsgrove Advertiser, highlighting the importance of animal welfare and legal accountability in the region.