A former professional heavyweight boxer has pleaded not guilty to five counts of animal cruelty after a newspaper investigation linked him to a series of horrific cat deaths in South London.
Court Appearance and Charges
Alexander Warren, 38, of Rudhall House in Tulse Hill, appeared at Croydon Magistrates' Court in October. The charges, brought under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, allege he caused unnecessary suffering to five cats and two dogs.
Court documents state that Warren is accused of failing to leash his dogs, named Bella and Prince, and preventing them from attacking cats on five separate occasions. The alleged incidents took place on November 5, 2024; January 8, 2025; and February 12, 13, and 21, in 2025 in the Lambeth, Southwark, and Brixton areas.
The charges also relate to alleged suffering caused to the dogs themselves. It is understood that both dogs have since been removed from Warren's care.
Background and Investigation
The case came to light after a MyLondon investigation published in February named Warren as a suspect connected to the gruesome incidents. The report prompted official action, leading to the court proceedings.
During the investigation, it was revealed that cats have long been a welcome presence in Brixton Market, valued by locals, street cleaners, and traders for their role in pest control. The community was deeply affected by the deaths.
The RSPCA said it was 'incredibly saddened' by the events and confirmed it was making its own enquiries. The Metropolitan Police had previously stated that local officers were taking the concerns seriously.
Boxing Career and Next Steps
Warren, who fought professionally under the alias AJ Carter or 'Big Dog', last stepped into the ring in 2017 against Daniel Dubois, a fight he lost by knockout in 48 seconds.
Reflecting on that defeat in a 2021 podcast, Warren stated, “I’m glad that what happened happened”.
According to a court official, Warren appeared at Inner London Crown Court on November 7. He has been released on unconditional bail and is next due to appear at the same court on March 15, 2027.
MyLondon approached Warren for comment on multiple occasions during its investigation, but he did not respond.
