SEAN BURNS OF PEMBROKE SENTENCED FOR HORROR FARM CRUELTY AND ILLEGAL SLAUGHTERHOUSE

Sean Burns, a man notorious for his involvement in severe animal cruelty and operating what has been described as a 'horror farm' in Pembroke, has faced significant legal repercussions following his repeated violations of animal welfare laws. Born on August 15, 1970, Burns resides at Rosehill Lodge, Bramble Hall Farm, Ferry Lane, Pembroke SA71 4RG. His latest conviction stems from a breach of an indefinite ban imposed on him for cruelty to over 200 animals and for running an illegal slaughterhouse on his property.

Burns, who has been publicly identified during his court appearances, has a long history of neglect and abuse towards both farm animals and domestic pets. His actions have garnered widespread condemnation, especially given the conditions in which animals were kept at his farm. On February 7, 2022, authorities from Pembrokeshire County Council, along with police, conducted a thorough inspection of Bramble Hall Farm. The investigation revealed a distressing scene: twelve dogs, two lovebirds, and a tortoise were found living in deplorable conditions. The environment was grim, with three animals suffering from serious health issues.

Specifically, the two rooms housing the dogs were filled with feces, and the bedding was soaked in urine, indicating neglect and poor hygiene. Among the animals, a small Jack Russell puppy was found with lacerations, lethargy, and was recumbent. The puppy was immediately taken to a local veterinary clinic, where it received antibiotics and was placed on a drip. Additionally, a female Yorkshire terrier was suffering from long-standing dental neglect and a fractured jaw, while a male French bulldog was diagnosed with chronic skin disease. The tortoise was also found to be inadequately housed, lacking proper bedding and greens necessary for its health.

Burns’s history with animal welfare violations is extensive. In 2020, he was banned indefinitely from keeping animals after authorities uncovered a catalogue of abuse and neglect at his farm. The 2019 operation, involving police, Pembrokeshire County Council, Dogs Trust, and the RSPCA, resulted in the removal of more than 200 animals, including goats, pigs, sheep, and horses, from Bramble Hall Farm. The following year, in September 2020, Burns was sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years, for his involvement in the production of smokies at the farm.

During his court proceedings, Burns initially denied breaching the ban, claiming he had no involvement in the farm’s operations. However, on the day of his trial, he changed his plea to guilty, explaining that he had become involved in the daily care of the animals due to his mother, Pam Burns, suffering from ill health. He admitted that he should have notified authorities about his involvement but failed to do so.

His defense argued that the animals were kept at his home address and that his involvement was due to his mother’s health issues. It was also noted that many of the animals seized last year were not in poor health, and there had been no further offenses since the end of his suspended sentence. Burns appeared in court in a wheelchair, with his solicitor stating that he was on multiple medications for health conditions.

Judge His Honour PH Thomas KC acknowledged the aggravating factors in the case, including Burns’s prior convictions for similar offenses in January 2018, September and October 2019, and January 2020. The judge also noted that Burns had received warnings and professional advice previously. While considering Burns’s health, the judge expressed skepticism due to the lack of medical evidence presented.

Ultimately, Burns was sentenced to eight months in prison, with four months to be served in custody and the remaining four on license. His existing disqualification order was also redrafted to include restrictions on owning, keeping, or participating in the care of animals, as well as influencing their keeping. Burns has the right to appeal this sentence after ten years.