An Eastwood man has been convicted of 15 animal welfare offences following an investigation by Southend-on-Sea City Council.
Officers described this as one of the worst cases of animal neglect and appalling living conditions they have encountered in more than 30 years of service.
On 1 September 2026, Basildon Magistrates' Court convicted Mr Terence Snooks of 15 separate offences under Section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
The case began following complaints from residents about persistent dog barking and concerns about conditions at a property in Eastwood.
An investigation by the council's Environmental Health team uncovered serious animal welfare concerns. In February 2025, officers worked alongside the council's Community Safety team and Essex Police to carry out a complex operation that resulted in 15 German Shepherd dogs being removed from the property.
The dogs were found living in appalling conditions, without adequate access to food and fresh water, suitable sleeping areas or appropriate socialisation and exercise. The property and garden were heavily contaminated with dog faeces and urine and contained hazards that posed risks to the animals.
When officers removed the dogs, they were found covered in excrement, with matted fur and overgrown claws, while several were underweight and showing signs of long-term neglect.
Many of the dogs had not been adequately trained, socialised or exercised, leaving them unable to be safely handled. Specialists involved in the case described the long-term impact of the neglect as particularly severe.
Mr Snooks is due to be sentenced at Basildon Magistrates' Court on 8 December 2026 at 10am (Court 3).
Cllr Irene Ferguson, Cabinet Member for Housing and Preventing Homelessness, including responsibility for regulatory services said:
"Our Environmental Health officers describe this as one of the worst cases of animal neglect and appalling living conditions that they have encountered in more than 30 years at the council.
"Thanks to the dedication of our Environmental Health and Community Safety teams, working alongside Essex Police and specialist partners, 15 dogs were rescued from appalling conditions and a successful prosecution secured. This result shows we will take action whenever serious animal welfare concerns are identified as part of our everyday duties."
PC Nicola Drake of Southend Neighbourhood Policing Team, said:
"This case demonstrates the value of strong partnership working in protecting animal welfare and safeguarding vulnerable animals from harm.
"Officers worked closely with Southend-on-Sea City Council and specialist partners throughout this complex investigation, and we welcome the court's decision. The welfare concerns identified were extremely serious, and swift joint action ensured the dogs were removed from those conditions and placed in safety."
While specialists were able to help many of the dogs, three were assessed as being so severely affected by their treatment that they could not be safely rehabilitated and were euthanised.
Most of the remaining dogs have since been successfully rehomed, while five were transferred to a specialist breed rehabilitation centre.