Police have charged two men and two women with 19 animal offences after an investigation into a vet’s practice.
The charges against Scott Bennett, 41, and wife Lynne Brockett, 37, relate to the running of the Platinum Vets and K9 Fertility in Strathaven, Lanarkshire.
Also arrested and charged were Italian vet Enrico Saccone, 49, and Nicola Hamill, 37, who is believed to be connected in the running of the practice.
The four people have been charged with 19 offences under the Animal Health and Welfare Act.
These arrests are the result of a joint investigation with SSPCA, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and the Veterinary Medicine Directive in the Strathaven area.
The vet practice is known for fertility treatments for expensive ‘designer’ breeds like American bullies, French bulldogs and pugs.
Scott Bennett was previously charged with drug offences and in connection with involvement with serious and organised crime.
Officers and officials had turned up at the vet practice in Strathaven’s Common Green last October before similar action was taken at his home at Brae Farm, a mile outside the town.
A fire crew was also involved in the search of the premises.
The Platinum Vets business is based in a former bank in the centre of the town and has been reported as using the most advanced equipment available.
Those who were arrested are due to appear in Hamilton Sheriff Court on Friday, 20 May 2022.
A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
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