A 25-year-old woman from London has been arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty after police discovered the remains of 37 dogs at a property believed to be operating as a rescue centre in Crays Hill, near Billericay.
The arrest was made on Wednesday afternoon (June 5) following a joint investigation by Essex Police, the RSPCA, and Basildon Council.
Dogs Found Dead at Alleged Rescue Centre
The gruesome discovery was originally made last month, when officers visited the Crays Hill location as part of an ongoing animal welfare investigation. Authorities also confirmed that 21 live animals were rescued from the property.
The scene was initially stood down on May 14, but following new information from a member of the public, police and RSPCA officials returned on Wednesday. During further searches, the remains of four additional animals were found by the landowner during the dismantling of buildings on-site.
Charges Already Filed Against Another Suspect
Ovaeed Rahman, 25, of Hope Road, Crays Hill, has already been charged with:
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One offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006
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Three counts of fraud by false representation
He appeared at Southend Magistrates’ Court last month and was remanded in custody ahead of a plea hearing at Basildon Crown Court on June 9.
A second man was also arrested in connection with the case on suspicion of fraud relating to the transfer of dog ownership and animal cruelty offences. He has since been conditionally bailed until July.
Police Appeal for Information
Inspector Steve Parry of the Basildon Neighbourhood Policing Team said:
“We understand the concerns of the local community. We ask people not to speculate and allow us to carry out our complex and thorough investigations.”
The investigation is ongoing, with efforts underway to respectfully remove the animal remains and determine whether they are connected to the wider case.
Anyone with information is urged to submit it via the Major Incident Public Portal:
🔗 https:///mipp.police.uk/operation/4201020125R48-PO1
