PAUL and CASEY YOUNG – ASHINGTON, NORTH EAST Ashington Father and Daughter Conv…

❌PAUL and CASEY YOUNG – ASHINGTON, NORTH EAST❌

Ashington Father and Daughter Convicted Over Neglect at Exotic Pet Shop

A father and daughter who ran a reptile shop in Northumberland have been convicted of multiple animal welfare offences after inspectors found dozens of neglected animals living in poor conditions.

Paul Young, 57, of Ashington (NE63), and his daughter Casey Sistrunk, also known as Casey Young, 28, of Blyth (NE24), were prosecuted by the RSPCA following an inspection at their business, Reptile Recovery and Discovery, on Station Road, Ashington, in March 2024.

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Inspectors found animals in distress and cramped conditions

The court heard that inspectors were called to the premises after reports of animal neglect. Inside, they discovered a range of exotic pets, including reptiles and snakes, being kept in unsuitable conditions.

Among the findings were:
• Bearded dragons confined to cramped vivariums and even a plastic tub.
• Reptiles without proper heating or UV lighting.
• A boa constrictor suffering from septicaemia.
• Several malnourished and emaciated animals, with some found dead in a freezer.

The court was told that more than 170 animals were being housed in the small shop, many of them lacking sufficient space, lighting, or care.

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“Matters got out of control”

Prosecutor for the RSPCA said the charity had been alerted by a concerned member of the public. Both defendants admitted neglect but claimed the situation had become overwhelming after customers began leaving unwanted pets at the store.

Paul Young, a former soldier earning around £120,000 a year working for the NHS, admitted four counts of causing unnecessary suffering to animals, while Sistrunk admitted five counts.

Judge Rippon, sentencing at Newcastle Crown Court, told them:

“I entirely accept you set up the business because you cared for and wanted to help these types of animals. After that, matters got out of control.

There were more than 170 animals in a relatively small premises. You were keeping them in a poor state. They did not have the space, equipment, or proper care they required.”

She added:

“You had the funds to improve the lot of these animals immediately. Their situation should have been improved by buying extra vivariums and providing veterinary treatment.

I think you have both been misguided and naïve. I accept there was no malicious intent.”

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Sentences

Both Young and Sistrunk were sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years, ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work, and placed under a four-month evening curfew.

No animal ownership ban was reported as part of their sentencing.