Eastwood man convicted after 15 German Shepherds rescued from one of worst neglect cases in 30 years
Council officers say the dogs were found covered in excrement with matted fur and overgrown claws
A man from Eastwood has been convicted of 15 animal welfare offences after 15 German Shepherd dogs were rescued from what officers have called one of the worst cases of neglect they've seen in more than 30 years.
Terence Snooks was found guilty at Basildon Magistrates' Court on 1st September 2026 of 15 offences under Section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
The case was brought by Southend-on-Sea City Council following an investigation by its Environmental Health team.
How the case began
The investigation started after complaints about persistent dog barking and concerns over conditions at a property in Eastwood.
In February 2025, council officers worked alongside the council's Community Safety team and Essex Police to carry out a complex operation, which led to 15 German Shepherd dogs being removed.
The dogs were found living 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.
The condition of the dogs
When officers removed the dogs, they were found covered in excrement, with matted fur and overgrown claws.
Several were underweight and showing signs of long-term neglect, and many had not been adequately trained, socialised or exercised, leaving them unable to be safely handled.
Three of the dogs 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 rehomed, while five were transferred to a specialist German Shepherd rehabilitation centre.
What officials said
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."
Snooks is due to be sentenced at Basildon Magistrates' Court on 8th December 2026.