06/12/2020
Those poor cats living in this mess. Just a reminder do your research before you rehome
CONVICTED hoarder and previous offender Marie Smithson, 42, from , County Durham – ran an illegal so-called cat rescue and kept poorly animals in foul conditions
Marie ‘Ree’ Smithson was advertising herself as a cat rescue centre despite being banned from keeping animals for 10 years in 2013, making it illegal for her to be in possession of the animals.
The investigation began when RSPCA inspectors and an independent vet accompanied police on a warrant after reports that Smithson was in breach of the disqualification order.
Eight poorly cats – Milo, Barney, Kevin, Marvin, Gavin, Merlin, Macey and Owen – were found living in poor conditions at the address.
Investigating RSPCA Inspector Catherine Maddison said: “Amongst the abundance of metal crates, cat carriers and litter trays there were litter shavings and faeces on the floor throughout.
“The smell was overpowering. We found cat faeces on the hallway, carpet, on the windowsill and on bedding in the bedroom.”
Sentencing: six-month custodial sentence suspended for 12 months; 20 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days. Total of £372 cost and charges. 15-year disqualification from keeping all animals with no option to appeal. Deprivation order for the cats.
https://ukanimalcrueltyfiles.org/seaham-county-durham-marie-smithson/
https://www.sunderlandecho.com/news/crime/15-year-animal-ban-woman-who-breached-previous-disqualification-2997721
