Shoreditch Woman Receives Second Lifetime Ban After 23 Animals Found in Squalid Conditions
A woman from Shoreditch has been handed a lifetime ban on keeping animals for the second time, following the discovery of twenty-one cats, one dog, and a python snake living in deplorable conditions within her flat. The case came to light after a critically ill cat was taken to a veterinary practice in January of last year, prompting an investigation by the RSPCA.
Filthy Environment Uncovered During Inspection
Rescue officers and police conducted an inspection in February at the woman's property located in The Waterson Building on Long Street. They encountered a scene of extreme neglect, with faeces littering the premises and inadequate provisions for the animals. RSPCA inspector Lee Ricketts described the distressing conditions, noting three litter trays overflowing with waste, a single water bowl that had only been provided by police just before his arrival, and evidence of diarrhoea and blood-stained faeces on bedding and in the bath.
Animals Suffering from Multiple Health Issues
During the inspection, a large number of cats were observed crowded around a kitchen worktop and hob, consuming old food left out in a pan. A small black dog roamed freely, while a python was found confined in a vivarium that had been switched off at the wall. All twenty-three animals were subsequently removed from the flat and placed into RSPCA care. Veterinary examinations revealed that nine of the cats were in poor health, suffering from a range of ear, eye, and dental diseases. Tragically, the cat that had initially been taken to the vet had to be euthanised due to its critical condition.
Defendant's Mitigation and Court Sentencing
The defendant, Rachel Xie Yin, aged thirty-eight and of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to breaching a previous lifetime ban that had been imposed in June 2015. She also admitted failing to meet the welfare needs of nine cats under her care. In mitigation, Xie Yin claimed she believed the original ban had expired and expressed a love for animals, stating she had taken on too many pets from friends travelling to and from China.
At Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, January 21, Xie Yin was sentenced to fourteen weeks in custody, suspended for twelve months. The sentence includes fifteen Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days and forty hours of unpaid work. Additionally, she received another lifetime ban on keeping all animals and was ordered to pay costs and a victim surcharge totalling six hundred and fifty-four pounds.
RSPCA Emphasises Signs of Neglect
A surgeon who examined the animals highlighted clear signs of neglect, including faecal soiling and matted fur. The professional stated that the pets' needs were not being met through regular and timely veterinary care, and the unsanitary environment likely contributed to their deteriorating health. The RSPCA continues to care for the rescued animals, ensuring they receive proper attention and treatment.
