Exotic birds and possums seized from illegal pet shop

A man has been convicted of running an illegal pet shop from his home in Staffordshire.

Robert Gillan, 40, from Rugeley, appeared at Stafford Crown Court earlier this month where he pleaded guilty to participating in a fraudulent business, failing to ensure the welfare of animals, and offering endangered species for sale without a valid certificate.

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

Officers said they discovered a number of neglected birds which were voluntarily surrendered to the council's environmental health team.

All animals were rehomed after being examined by a veterinarian and are doing well in their new environments, police said.

The animals including four budgerigars, four rosellas, one galah, four conures and 13 sugar glider possums.

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

PC Darren Wilkes said the operation had been a great example of collaborative working between the police, RSPCA and local authority.

"If you are considering buying an exotic animal, then you should ensure that the animal comes with all the correct documentation," he said.

"This is to ensure that our rare and endangered species are properly protected."

Councillor John Preece, of Cannock Chase District Council, 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."

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