REBECCA SOWDEN AND MARK WEST SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC PET CRUELTY IN EXETER

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Exeter, a couple identified as Rebecca Sowden and Mark West have been formally sentenced after authorities uncovered a shocking situation involving the confinement and neglect of a total of 29 pets within a single residential flat. The court proceedings laid bare the extent of the neglect, revealing that the couple had been repeatedly warned about the poor conditions and the welfare of their animals, yet failed to take appropriate action.

Rebecca Sowden, aged 33, and Mark West, aged 39, were found to be housing a diverse array of animals, including 14 snakes, 12 cats, a tortoise, a bearded dragon, and a leopard gecko, all living in deplorable conditions within their Exeter flat. Despite receiving a total of 19 warnings from various authorities—such as the RSPCA, social services, police, and local council officials—regarding the state of their home and the health of their pets, the couple did not improve the situation. Instead, the conditions inside the flat deteriorated further, with animals suffering from neglect and inadequate care.

During the court hearing, Sowden, who had previously studied animal care in college, and West, a delivery driver, both admitted to charges of neglecting their animals’ welfare. The court was told that the animals were not being fed or watered properly, nor were they given sufficient space or exercise. The living environment was described as covered in faeces, with insufficient heating and poor hygiene, creating a hazardous and inhumane setting for the animals. District Judge Stuart Smith described the flat as “not fit for humans or animals,” emphasizing the suffering endured by the animals due to these conditions.

Following the legal proceedings, all the animals were surrendered to the authorities. An RSPCA inspector who inspected the property described the environment as “squalid,” highlighting the severe impact on the animals’ health and welfare. The inspector’s testimony underscored the urgent need for intervention to prevent further suffering.

In sentencing, the court ordered Sowden and West to complete 12 months of community orders, which include unpaid work. Additionally, they were each required to pay costs of £514. The judge also imposed a ban on both individuals from keeping any animals for the next eight years, aiming to prevent any future incidents of neglect or cruelty. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect, especially in a community like Exeter where such cases have garnered significant attention.