A man faces charges after three donkeys died from starvation and a fourth was critically ill, with an animal rights group demanding a ban on him owning animals.
Death of three donkeys investigated
On Monday, November 2, 2026, at 1:30 p.m., the Perpignan police court will examine a case involving the death of three female donkeys and the critical condition of a fourth, all kept on the territory of the commune of Le Soler. The case has drawn attention due to the severe neglect and health issues reported in the animals.Cause of donkey deaths identified
According to the veterinary report, the first two donkeys died of hunger, weakness, and cold, having gnawed the bark of trees and consumed toxic plants in an attempt to survive. The report also noted that there was nothing left to eat in the field where the animals were kept.Remaining donkeys receive care
The two remaining donkeys, named Jane and Zumba, presented several serious health issues, including extreme emaciation, anemia, severe infection, slight hypothermia, tachycardia, and suspicion of plant intoxication. Despite their exhaustion, they showed a strong desire to eat when food was presented.Owner admits to rationing food
The owner, a 36-year-old man without professional activity and a beneficiary of the active solidarity income (RSA), admitted to having rationed the feeding of his animals. He explained that he recovered the animals after an announcement on the Internet and that the last veterinary visit was in September 2024.Neighbor reports prior neglect
A neighbor testified that she had noticed difficulties in caring for the animals as early as 2024, including the discovery of a donkey's body following a difficult birth. She noted the owner's lack of knowledge regarding equines and had offered advice on feeding and care.Animal rights group seeks justice
The Stéphane Lamart association, recognized as a public utility, has taken part in the proceedings as a civil party and requests the compensation of its moral damage. The association argues that financial difficulties or lack of knowledge cannot justify the deprivation of sufficient food or essential care for animals.Legal action and future restrictions
The Stéphane Lamart association, represented by Maître Aurélien Robert, a lawyer at the bar of Montpellier, emphasizes the veterinary findings, the owner's admissions of rationing, the deficiencies mentioned, and testimonies about previous difficulties. It calls for the court to examine whether the owner consciously maintained insufficient feeding as the animals' condition deteriorated.Owner fears future restrictions
The owner expressed concern about a possible conviction that could prevent him from keeping animals in the future. The Stéphane Lamart association asserts that the gravity of the case justifies considering a definitive ban on keeping animals within the appropriate legal framework.
