Knox City Council has successfully prosecuted an unregistered cat breeding and import/export business, resulting in a record fine of over $100,000.
A man and woman, along with their company Dollbell Pty Ltd, were charged with more than 60 offences relating to operating an unregistered domestic animal business from a Bayswater residential property.
The Ringwood Magistrates Court this month found the couple and their company guilty of all charges. They were convicted and fined $105,000 plus ordered to pay Council's costs. The couple was also banned from operating a domestic animal business or selling cats for 10 years, which is the maximum prohibition period a court can impose.
The successful prosecution has resulted in the largest fine awarded for animal related offences in Council's history.
A raid on the property uncovered 49 cats and a number of newborn kittens, including Ragdoll and British Shorthair breeds. A number of unregistered dogs were also discovered.
A cat found in the raid. Photo: Knox City Council
Council officers found multiple breaches of the Domestic Animals Act and Knox Local Law, mainly for conducting an unregistered domestic animal business and failing to register multiple cats and dogs.
The court found all the accused guilty of all offences and sentenced them as follows:
- Company convicted and fined $65,000 plus Council's costs
- Each individual convicted and fined $20,000 plus Council's costs
- Banning orders for 10 years prohibiting both individuals from conducting a domestic animal business or selling cats
The court agreed that animal welfare was at the forefront of the case, and financial greed was the driving force behind the offending. In handing down the sentences, the Magistrate emphasised a strong and heavy sentence must be imposed to act as a deterrent and send a message to the community this behaviour is unacceptable.
The investigation and prosecution of this unregistered breeder is an example of Council's important role in animal management, working to ensure the welfare of animals across Knox. The majority of our community care deeply for their pets and other animals and this case is an important reminder that illegal activity and disregard for animal welfare is unacceptable.
