SEYED ALAVIZADEH PORTSWOOD DOG EAR CROPPING SCANDAL SHOCKS SOUTHAMPTON

Seyed Alavizadeh, a notorious figure in the world of extreme dog breeding, has been convicted of performing illegal ear cropping procedures on multiple dogs in the Portswood area of Southampton. Born in April 1983 and residing on Laburnum Road, Alavizadeh’s actions have sparked widespread condemnation and highlighted ongoing issues surrounding animal cruelty and illegal breeding practices.

Between December 28, 2021, and March 18, 2022, Alavizadeh, operating under the trade name TTB Bully Camp, was responsible for cropping the ears of seven American Bully dogs, including Bora, RZA, Mr T or Tank, Nala, Ice Berg, Ghost, and Mooncake. Some of these dogs were from the same litter, raising concerns about the breeding practices involved. The RSPCA, with assistance from local police, intervened in the case, leading to his prosecution.

During police interviews, Alavizadeh claimed that he did not own at least one of the dogs involved in the illegal procedures. This assertion was part of his attempt to distance himself from direct responsibility, although evidence pointed to his active involvement. Photographs show him alongside his wife Jade and one of the dogs, Ice Berg, which was central to the case.

Alavizadeh’s brother, Arman Alavizadeh, also a breeder specializing in extreme bully dogs under the name Defined Bullz, was not prosecuted but is known to operate a similar breeding business. The two brothers have reportedly shared ownership of dogs, a tactic often used by breeders to evade detection and enforcement of animal welfare laws.

In court, Alavizadeh pleaded guilty to seven counts of performing prohibited procedures on protected animals. Prosecutor Joel Wootten explained that the ear cropping caused the dogs to experience inflammation and pain, leading to significant suffering. He emphasized that such procedures impair the animals’ ability to communicate with both humans and other dogs for the rest of their lives.

Alavizadeh justified his actions by claiming that the dogs’ ears had already been cropped when he purchased them in America, where the procedure is legal. He also argued that American Bully dogs are often shown in competitions similar to Crufts, and that ear cropping is a common practice among enthusiasts who prefer the aesthetic appearance it provides. However, the judge, Brian Forster KC, dismissed these claims, stating that the cropping was unnecessary, deliberately performed in violation of UK law, and caused the animals considerable pain.

Judge Forster highlighted that although ear cropping is legal in some countries, it is illegal in the UK and should not be performed here. He condemned the act as a deliberate violation of animal welfare laws, carried out with full knowledge that it was unlawful and solely for show purposes.

Alavizadeh’s legal representative, Andrew Houston, expressed remorse on his client’s behalf, noting that he has no previous convictions and is a primary carer for his family. Houston argued that there was a realistic prospect for rehabilitation and requested leniency, citing the potential impact on Alavizadeh’s family if he were to serve prison time.

In sentencing, Alavizadeh received a 16-week custodial sentence, suspended for 18 months, along with 100 hours of unpaid community service and a £156 surcharge. Additionally, he was banned from owning or participating in the ownership or care of any dogs for five years, a restriction set to expire in May 2029. The court did not order him to contribute towards the costs of the case, which amounted to over £12,820, citing his financial difficulties.

This case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in combating illegal dog breeding and animal cruelty, especially practices that are considered acceptable in some countries but are illegal and unethical in the UK. The conviction serves as a reminder of the importance of animal welfare laws and the need for vigilant enforcement to prevent such suffering in the future.