A puppy breeder who runs a vet practice has been charged with involvement in “serious and organised crime” after multi-agency searches of his home and business premises.
Scott Bennett, 40, was arrested along with wife Lynn, 38, after their home and business, Platinum Vets and K9 Fertility centre, in Strathaven, Lanarkshire, was searched last Thursday.
Both were charged with drug offences after the swoop by Police Scotland, accompanied by the Scottish SPCA, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and the Veterinary Medicines Directorate.
Enquiries are still ongoing in relation to animal welfare issues.
Detective Sergeant Gary Crossan, from Lanarkshire Serious and Organised Crime Team, said: “Two people have been arrested and charged after two warrants were executed in the Strathaven area on Thursday, 28 October.
“A 40-year-old man has been charged with drug offences and in connection with involvement with serious and organised crime.
“A 38-year-old woman has been charged in connection with drug offences.
“They are due to appear at Hamilton Sheriff Court on 26/11/2021.
“Enquiries are ongoing in connection with animal health and welfare issues.”
Officers and officials had turned up at the vet practice in Strathaven’s Common Green 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.
Services offered include ultrasound and fertility treatments for expensive breeds like French bulldogs, American bullies and pugs.
