22-05-2025
Father and daughter caused unnecessary suffering to animals
A father and daughter have been sentenced for causing unnecessary suffering to animals.
Richard Scarfe, of Park Street, Pembroke Dock, and Brogan Scarfe, of Woodbine Terrace, Pembroke, admitted to offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
They appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Monday, May 12, for sentencing.
The pair admitted causing unnecessary suffering to pigs, sheep, poultry, and dogs between January 25, 2022, and April 18, 2023.
Richard Scarfe, who had previously been disqualified from keeping animals, was sentenced to 11 months in prison.
However, this was suspended for 12 months due to concerns about the impact of the sentence on those dependent on him.
He was also given a lifetime disqualification from owning and keeping animals, participating in the keeping of animals, and being part of an arrangement where he can control or influence the way animals are kept.
(Image: Pembrokeshire County Council)
This disqualification covers all animals and is to remain in force for life with no application to terminate for 10 years.
Richard Scarfe was also ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work, a 12-month mental health treatment requirement, and 15 days of rehabilitation activity requirement.
Brogan Scarfe received a disqualification from owning animals limited to pigs, sheep, bovines, avians, and dogs.
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She must not keep the animals as listed, participate in the keeping of animals as listed, or be part of an arrangement where she can control or influence the way animals are kept.
This disqualification is to remain in force for five years with no application to terminate for three years.
Brogan Scarfe was also sentenced to a community order for 12 months, with 100 hours of unpaid work.
The efforts of Pembrokeshire County Council's animal health team were highlighted following the conclusion of this long-running and complex animal welfare case.
Councillor Jacob Williams, the cabinet member for planning and regulatory services, said: "The animal health team provides support and advice to farmers in order to ensure legal compliance, and at the beginning of this case, guidance was offered.
"However, repeated breaches left the council no option but to take formal action to secure the animals' welfare.
"Veterinary surgeons were consulted for their expert opinion, who certified that the animals were suffering, and issued a certificate allowing for the animals to be seized for their protection under section 18 of the Animal Health Act 2006.
"This has been a prolonged and complex case, with civil and criminal proceedings running concurrently.
"Animals are a very strong and proud feature of Pembrokeshire life, and the council's animal health and welfare officers deserve great credit for their commitment to securing animal safety and in bringing this sad case to a conclusion."
