Chelmsford: Two arrested after warrant executed at farm

Two people have been arrested on suspicion of animal welfare offences after a warrant was executed at a farm on the outskirts of Chelmsford.

Officers from our Operational Support Group, the Force Support Unit, Chelmsford Community Policing Team (CPT) and Rural Engagement Team entered the grounds following concerns raised by members of the public about the condition of horses being kept on the land.

They were joined by teams from the RSPCA, member charities from the National Equine Welfare Council, Essex Fire and Rescue, and officials from Chelmsford City Council.

A significant number of horses and dogs in need of care were found on the farm.

The pair arrested at the scene were taken to Harlow Police Station for questioning.

Inspector Sam Girdlestone of Chelmsford CPT said:

“We came to the property to support the RSPCA and Chelmsford City Council with their investigation, and we arrested two people in the house.

“We found horses who appeared to be in poor health, and a number of Alsatian dogs and puppies locked up in outbuildings.

“The RSPCA, charities from the National Equine Welfare Council, vets and other organisations were on site to make sure the animals are safe and are given the necessary aftercare.

“Animal welfare is an issue we take very seriously, and we’d appeal to the public to call us or our partner organisations if they see an animal in a condition that worries them.”

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