A FARMER from Denbigh was ordered to pay a four-figure sum after he admitted a number of charges relating to animal cruelty.

David Edward Owen, 49, of Denbigh, pleaded guilty to the following at Caernarfon Crown Court last month:

  • Two counts of failing to comply with an animal by-product requirement.
  • Two counts of failing to keep an up-to-date holding register.
  • Being the keeper of a food-producing animal and failing to keep documentation of the acquisition of veterinary medicinal product for five years.
  • Castrating bovine.
  • Failing to notify the death of cattle.
  • Causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.
  • Failing to comply with an animal by product notice.

Owen was accused of having failed to dispose of sheep, lamb and cattle carcasses, castrating cattle using a Burdizzo device, and causing unnecessary suffering to a calf which led to it having to be euthanised.

All of the charges related to activity at Bryn Uchaf, Llannefydd, Conwy in 2022.

Earlier this month, at his sentencing at Caernarfon Crown Court, Owen was fined £1,000, and ordered to pay £500 in court costs.

He had been prosecuted by Conwy County Borough Council, who said following his sentencing: “The council takes its duty to protect the health and welfare of farm animals very seriously. 

“Whilst cases like this are uncommon, if we receive reports they will be investigated by animal health officers and appropriate action will be taken, as in this case.”