RSPCA and police ruined my life, says rescuer cleared of cruelty

THE owner of an animal sanctuary who was cleared of cruelty says the RSPCA and police put him through “seven years of hell”.

Stuart Ford, 58, who founded the Society for the Protection and Rehoming of Animals (SPRA) in North Devon, received death threats and was forced to leave his home after he was charged with mistreating dogs in his care.

He was cleared and awarded costs by a judge who described him as being of “good character”. Now an investigation into the police’s handling of the case has concluded officers relied too heavily upon the guidance of the RSPCA.

Mr Ford’s ordeal began in 2012 when an RSPCA inspector and a Devon and Cornwall police officer raided his home to investigate a complaint of cruelty.

An independent vet concluded that none of the animals showed any sign of suffering and none were removed. But the investigation continued.

The officer who led the raid has been disciplined, but will receive no more than “management action”, which amounts to a slap on the wrist. “It’s been seven years of absolute hell,” said Mr Ford. “I don’t trust the police and have no faith in the British justice system. The RSPCA is a law unto themselves. They both deserve to be exposed and punished.” A spokesman for the RSPCA said: “Devon and Cornwall Police have conducted a detailed investigation into the numerous allegations made by Mr Ford, and determined that some of the allegations made should be upheld. Mr Ford has exercised his right to appeal this decision and the matter is being considered by the Independent Office for Police Conduct.”

Devon and Cornwall police declined to comment before the outcome.