A warrant has been issued for the arrest of disgraced horse dealer James Gray, who this afternoon absconded from court.
Gray was present at Aylesbury Magistrates Court this morning, but this afternoon disappeared from court and was sentenced in his absence.
Last Thursday, James Gray (pictured above) lost his appeal against his conviction for horse welfare offences. Last year, Gray was sentenced to 24 weeks in jail and given a life ban on keeping horses.
Today, that sentence was increased to 26 weeks in jail and a hearing on costs was reserved to a later date.
James Gray absconded from court leaving his family to hear their sentences. His wife, Julie, (42) and daughters Jodie (27) and Cordelia Gray (21) were also unsuccessful in their appeals. They will each have to complete 150 hours of community service and are banned from keeping equines for 10 years.
James Gray Junior (17) has to complete a 18-month supervision order and is banned from keeping equines for 10 years.
RSPCA inspectors discovered more than 100 horses, ponies and donkeys and the bodies of a further 32 equines at Gray’s property — Spindles Farm near Amersham — between Friday 4 and Wednesday 9 January 2008.
If you see James Gray, call Thames Valley Police urgently on 08458 505 505 or call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.
