A couple from Birmingham have been handed a lifetime ban on keeping animals after dumping approximately 90 pet rabbits in a woodland in Worcestershire. The RSPCA confirmed that Kevin Lewis, 49, and Michelle Deakin, 51, both from Yardley Wood Road in Highter's Heath, received suspended prison sentences and a life ban following the incident.
Rabbits Found Abandoned in Woodland
Members of the public discovered rabbits running loose in Chaddesley Wood, near Kidderminster, on 11 November 2024. Among the 90 rabbits, 23 were found dead. An RSPCA inspector attended the scene and described finding numerous dead rabbits scattered individually or in groups. Two live rabbits were also recovered at the site.
Condition of the Animals
A veterinary examination of 11 dead rabbits and two live ones revealed that most animals smelled strongly of urine and ammonia. Almost all had skin tears and lacerations to their ears, scrotums, and noses. The vet concluded that the wounds resulted from infighting over territory, social dominance, mating, or food.
Live rabbits were collected by members of the public, while 56 were taken in by the rescue organization Lucky Bunny and Friends.
Criminal Proceedings
Lewis and Deakin each pleaded guilty to a charge under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 at Birmingham Magistrates' Court. They were sentenced to 18 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months. Additionally, they must pay a victim surcharge of £154 each, with Lewis ordered to pay £350 in court costs and Deakin £200.
Mitigation and RSPCA Response
In mitigation, the court heard that the couple had taken in unwanted rabbits and cats but became overwhelmed, accumulating £25,000 in debt. RSPCA Inspector Boris Lasserre stated, “Financial hardship can be no excuse for abandoning pet rabbits like this as there are always other options. These poor rabbits were left to fend for themselves in the wild and it was shocking to see how many had been left to their fates.”
He added, “Abandoned and neglected rabbits are an increasing problem and the RSPCA is seeing more and more coming into our care. Before considering such drastic action people should seek help and the RSPCA has a cost of living hub which is designed to assist owners.”
