Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info

A woman has been charged in connection with the discovery of the remains of 37 dogs at an Essex property - with a man already charged now facing further counts. The two people have been under police investigation following the discovery of the remains of the animals in Billericay earlier this year.

Essex Police launched the investigation in May when local officers, working alongside colleagues from the RSPCA and Basildon Borough Council, responded to reports relating to an address in Billericay. They uncovered the remains of the dead dogs and seized a number of other dogs.

The investigation has had a "profound" effect on the community of Billericay, with police saying they are determined to "protect the dignity of the dogs and ensure a strong case is built".

Oaveed Rahman, 25, of Hope Road, Crays Hill, Billericay, was arrested and has already been charged with causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal and fraud by false representation. This week, he was additionally charged with possession of a prohibited breed of animal along with three additional counts of fraud.

Greta Csikos, 25, of Sinclair Road, Chingford, who is currently on bail, has now been charged with two offences of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal and an offence contrary to Section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, the duty of person responsible for animal to ensure welfare.

She will appear at Basildon Magistrates' Court on Thursday October 9. A third person, a 38-year-old man of no fixed address, who was arrested on suspicion of fraud and failing to prevent unnecessary suffering to animals, will face no further action.

Inspector Steve Parry, leading the investigation, said: "It has been a protracted and intense investigation to get us to the point of securing these additional charges. Working closely with the CPS and our partners to secure more charges is testament to the dedication and perseverance of everyone involved in this case to date.

"We understand the strong feelings of local community, and people from further afield. People want answers. As is clear from the further charges authorised, the parameters of our enquiries have widened, and each piece of evidence must be thoroughly interrogated.

"This is an important stage in our investigation, but our enquiries continue. I would like to thank all the people who have shared vital information. Your help has been invaluable, enabling us to collate evidence and continue our enquiries as the building of the case continues."