ROBIN JEFFERIES AND PAULINE VINALL FROM PAULSGROVE FACE COURT OVER HORSE NEGLECT IN PORTSMOUTH

Robin Jefferies, born on May 30, 1968, and Pauline Vinall, born on May 22, 1987, both residents of Dormington Road in Paulsgrove, Portsmouth PO6, found themselves at the center of a serious animal welfare case involving the neglect of multiple horses. The case, which spanned a seven-day trial at Portsmouth Magistrates Court, resulted in their conviction on a total of 13 charges related to the mistreatment and neglect of these animals.

Prosecutor Sara Pratt detailed to the magistrates how the defendants had allowed some of their horses to endure prolonged periods of suffering. She emphasized that several of these horses were suffering from severe worm infestations, a condition that, if left untreated, could have been fatal. Ms. Pratt remarked, “Those horses were perhaps very fortunate they remained alive,” highlighting the severity of the neglect. She further explained that statistics show that up to 70 percent of horses suffering from similar infestations typically do not survive, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Adding to the concerns, RSPCA Chief Inspector Jen Ride described the case as emblematic of what she termed the ‘equine crisis’ currently affecting the region. She explained that the ongoing problem stems from uncontrolled breeding and a lack of proper land management, which results in an excessive number of horses being kept without adequate resources or care. During the inspection, approximately 35 horses were present at the property, and authorities removed nine of them to ensure their safety.

It was also revealed that Robin Jefferies was previously banned from keeping animals following a cruelty conviction in October 2014. The court acknowledged that Pauline Vinall had assisted Jefferies in violating this existing ban, which was a significant factor in the case.

Magistrate Jonathan Berry described Jefferies’ recent neglect as a “flagrant breach” of his prior disqualification, emphasizing the seriousness of his actions.

In terms of sentencing, Robin Jefferies received a 22-week suspended custodial sentence. Additionally, he was subjected to a lifetime ban on keeping horses, which has been reimposed with no right of appeal for ten years. Pauline Vinall was given a conditional discharge, with a nominal fine of £20. She also received a seven-year ban on keeping horses, which is set to expire in April 2025.

This case highlights ongoing concerns about animal welfare and the need for stricter enforcement to prevent such neglect from recurring in the future.