Farmer sentenced for neglecting his livestock
23rd January 2025
A Wiltshire farmer has been given a suspended prison sentence after decaying sheep carcases were found on the farm.
Daniel Hayward of Bratton was sentenced to 10 months imprisonment suspended for 12 months at Swindon Crown Court after pleading guilty to animal welfare offences.
The 33-year-old farmer was also banned from keeping all animals except cattle, cats and dogs for five years and must complete 250 hours of unpaid work.
The court also ordered Mr Hayward to pay £3,600 in costs and a victim surcharge.
Following an investigation by Wiltshire Council, Mr Hayward was charged with 21 offences relating to the care of sheep, livestock record-keeping requirements and the incorrect storage of carcasses. The offences all took place between April 2023 and February 2024.
Multiple inspections failed
Officers from Wiltshire Council’s Animal Health and Welfare team visited land in Great Cheverell in April 2023 and found approximately 30 sheep, including ewes with young lambs with no access to drinking water.
On a separate visit, multiple decaying sheep carcases were found in and around buildings used by Mr Hayward.
Further animal welfare inspections by the animal health officers and vets from the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) were conducted between April and May 2023. Six sheep were found to be in such poor condition that they required immediate euthanasia, while others needed veterinary treatment.
Whilst under investigation, Mr Hayward continued to store sheep carcasses incorrectly, allowing other animals and birds access, with the stench of decay causing a nuisance locally.
It was also discovered that he was continuing to commit serious animal welfare offences, with five further sheep requiring immediate euthanasia during a revisit from officers and an APHA vet.
The farmer was also charged with failing to comply with legal requirements relating to recording and reporting movements of sheep used to ensure traceability of his flock.
In addition, he had failed to notify the secretary of state that he was keeping sheep on land at Worton and Great Cheverell and did not provide officers with copies of his animal movement and animal medicine records when required.
‘Prosecuting those who are neglecting or acting cruelly towards livestock’
Councillor Dominic Muns, cabinet member for environment said: “I want to thank our dedicated team of Animal Health and Welfare officers who do all that they can to enforce legislation designed to help protect animal health and welfare across Wiltshire.
“This shocking case shows that we will use our powers to prosecute those who are found to be neglecting or acting cruelly towards livestock in our county. It also highlights the importance of record-keeping, with the details being used when necessary to help prevent and contain disease.
“If anyone has concerns related to the health and welfare of livestock, they can contact the animal health team on 0300 456 0100.”
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