Man convicted of running illegal pet shop

A man has been convicted of a number of offences relating to running an illegal pet shop from his home in Rugeley.

Robert Gillan, 40, appeared at Stafford Crown Court on 12 December, where he pleaded guilty to participating in a fraudulent business as a sole trader, failing to ensure the welfare of animals, and offering endangered species for sale without valid certification.

His conviction follows a raid, carried out on the local authority-owned property Gillan was living in, in May 2022. 

During the operation, officers discovered a number of neglected birds and animals including four budgerigars, four rosellas, one galah, four conures and 13 sugar glider possums.

They were voluntarily surrendered by Gillan to Cannock Chase District Council’s environmental health team. All animals were rehomed after being examined by a veterinarian and are doing well in their new environments. 

Following his conviction, Gillan has been placed on conditional bail ahead of a further hearing at the same court on 13 February 2026.

The prosecution was brought by Cannock Chase District Council in partnership with Staffordshire Police’s rural and wildlife crime team.

PC Darren Wilkes, of our rural and wildlife crime team based in Cannock, said: “This warrant, under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, is a great example of collaborative working, where we worked with partners across the local authority, including environmental health, the RSPCA and veterinary colleagues, to protect those without a voice.

“If you are considering buying an exotic animal, then you should ensure that the animal comes with all the correct documentation. This is to ensure that our rare and endangered species are properly protected.”

Speaking following Gillan’s conviction, Councillor John Preece, portfolio leader for environment and climate change, said: “This conviction sends a clear message that the illegal sale of animals and poor treatment of them will not be tolerated in Cannock Chase.

“Animal welfare is taken extremely seriously, and we will continue to work closely with our partners to investigate concerns, protect animals from harm and take enforcement action where necessary.

“I would like to thank officers involved for their thorough work in bringing this case before the courts.”

To report suspicious behaviour in your area, call us on 101, use Livechat on our website or call 999 in an emergency.