At a rehoming facility in Carys Hill, Billericay, a distressing scene unfolded as 41 deceased pets were discovered, with dogs seen wandering amidst the carcasses. Essex Police Superintendent Leigh Norris expressed uncertainty about the full extent of the situation at Save A Paw, following the sentencing of Oaveed Rahman for animal cruelty and fraud charges at Basildon Crown Court.
The authorities, in collaboration with the RSPCA and Basildon Council, conducted a raid on a bungalow on Hope Road in May 2025 due to suspicious activities reported. Upon arrival, including an RSPCA vet, they were met with deplorable conditions, with dogs surrounded by deceased animals, unsanitary living conditions, and fecal matter.
The initial visit revealed 37 dead dogs, and a subsequent visit in June 2025 uncovered four more deceased dogs after a shed was demolished. Superintendent Norris highlighted the cramped and unsuitable conditions where numerous animals were kept, mentioning the discovery of remains on the premises.
Save A Paw, one of several animal rehoming services in the UK, was scrutinized for its operations involving the rehoming of pets with behavioral issues. Rahman had allegedly misled pet owners and accepted payments for services that were not delivered as promised.
Despite a widespread investigation involving over 200 contacts through the Major Incident Public Portal and engagements with various police forces and individuals across the country, the full scope of the incident remains elusive. Superintendent Norris acknowledged the challenges in determining the exact number of animals affected by the negligence at the facility.
Regulations surrounding animal rehoming services were deemed insufficient, leaving room for potential exploitation and misconduct. The authorities faced challenges in uncovering the true extent of the harm caused by the facility, expressing regret over the limitations in reaching all those impacted by the malpractices.
