RSPCA Victoria alleges further offences relating to kittens

Last week RSPCA Victoria laid four charges against an individual who has been previously found guilty of animal welfare offences on multiple occasions.

The 59-year-old man from Soldiers Hill was charged with operating an illegal domestic animal business, sale of an animal in a public place, breaching a banning order in relation to the operation of a domestic animal business and an offence relating to the advertising of animals for sale.

If all charges are found proven, the accused could face fines of up to $79,783.86 or up to two years’ imprisonment.

The accused has previously been prosecuted by RSPCA Victoria and has convictions for various offences under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 (POCTAA) and the Domestic Animals Act 1994 (DAA).

As the case is now before the courts, no further comment will be made at this time. The sale of animals in public places such as parks, roadsides and car parks, is illegal. Dogs and cats must only be sold from a registered domestic animal business, from a private residence or sold at a place where an animal sale permit is in place.

Members of the public who may have information about any individuals selling animals in public places are urged to contact RSPCA Victoria directly.

All reports made to RSPCA Victoria’s Major Investigations Team must be lodged via www.rspcavic.org/services/tip-off or by calling 9224 2222.