RICHARD JAPETH FROM LLANAELHAERN FACES SCRUTINY OVER CATTLE NEGLECT IN CAERNARFON AND CRICCIETH

Farmer Richard Japheth, a resident of Glanllyn in Llanaelhaern, Caernarfon, has come under serious scrutiny following allegations of neglect and poor management of his livestock. Born on June 20, 1963, Japheth was involved in a series of incidents that raised concerns about the welfare of his cattle and the proper handling of farm animals on his land.

In January 2016, authorities responded to reports of distress among a herd of cattle kept on farmland near Criccieth, specifically in the Rhoslan area. The investigation was initiated by Gwynedd Council after receiving complaints about the animals' conditions. Upon inspection, RSPCA inspectors and officers from the Animal and Plant Health Agency found that the cattle were struggling to navigate through deep mud, which had been caused by heavy rainfall. The situation was dire enough that one of the cows was euthanized to prevent further suffering.

Further examination of Japheth’s farm activities revealed additional breaches of animal welfare regulations. It was established that he had failed to promptly dispose of a sheep carcass on land at Llanaelhaern in January 2016, an act that could have posed health risks and indicated neglect. Moreover, he admitted to not registering the birth of a calf within the legally mandated seven-day period in December 2015, and also acknowledged failing to notify authorities about the deaths of animals on his property. These lapses highlighted a pattern of neglect and non-compliance with livestock management laws.

During the court proceedings, Judge Gwyn Jones emphasized the seriousness of the case, noting that Japheth’s experience as a farmer should have prompted better care and responsibility. The judge remarked, “You could have done more to ensure the welfare of these animals,” underscoring the gravity of neglect despite Japheth’s familiarity with farming practices.

Japheth’s legal representative, Carys Parry, argued that her client had made efforts to care for his animals, but the adverse weather conditions in December 2015 severely hampered his ability to access the land and provide adequate support. She also pointed out that Japheth had cooperated fully with the investigation and had accepted the recommendations made by officials.

In sentencing, Japheth was ordered to complete 120 hours of unpaid community service and was fined a total of £15,000, which included costs. Importantly, the court did not impose a ban on him keeping livestock, allowing him to continue his farming activities under certain conditions. The case highlights ongoing concerns about animal welfare standards and the responsibilities of farmers in the Caernarfon area, particularly in challenging weather conditions that can exacerbate neglect if not properly managed.