BILLERICAY, ESSEX — A 25-year-old woman from London has been arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty after authorities discovered the remains of 37 dead dogs at a property in Crays Hill, Billericay.
Essex Police confirmed the woman’s arrest on Wednesday afternoon as part of an ongoing investigation into the disturbing discovery. The authorities, alongside the RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and Basildon Council staff, found the 37 dead dogs last month during a joint visit to the property. In addition, the remains of four more animals were identified later when buildings on the property were dismantled by the landowner.
The investigation first began after information provided by a member of the public led to further searches at the location on Wednesday. The original scene had been cleared on May 14, but additional remains were uncovered during the latest investigation.
Ongoing Investigations
A 25-year-old man, Ovaeed Rahman, from Crays Hill, was arrested last month in connection with the case. He has been charged with causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, violating the Animal Welfare Act 2006, and three counts of fraud by false representation.
Rahman appeared before Southend Magistrates’ Court and was remanded in custody. He is due for a plea hearing at Basildon Crown Court on June 9.
A second man has also been arrested on suspicion of fraud and animal cruelty offenses related to the transfer of ownership of dogs. He has been conditionally bailed until July.
21 Dogs Rescued
Along with the investigation into the dead animals, 21 live animals were recovered from the property. Authorities are continuing to assess the situation to ensure the safety and welfare of these animals.
Essex Police has confirmed that they are working in cooperation with the Basildon Neighbourhood Policing Team to respectfully remove the remains from the scene and to determine if the four additional animal remains found are linked to the ongoing investigation.
Community Response
Local authorities, including Inspector Steve Parry of the Basildon Neighbourhood Policing Team, acknowledged the public concern surrounding the case.
“We understand the concerns of the local community,” said Inspector Parry. “We would ask people not to speculate and allow us to carry out our complex and thorough investigations.”
How to Help and Stay Informed
If you have any information related to this case or other animal welfare concerns, Essex Police and the RSPCA encourage members of the public to come forward. They also remind everyone to avoid spreading unverified information to ensure the integrity of the investigation.
For updates on the case and how to report suspected animal cruelty, stay tuned to Essex Police’s official channels.