Couple from Hasselt convicted for selling critically ill Pomeranians (Hasselt)

An ex-couple who had an illegal trade in Pomeranian puppies in Hasselt was sentenced to community service and a fine in Hasselt on Monday. It was a customer who sounded the alarm after purchasing two dogs for 1,850 euros each that turned out to be critically ill.

The man (51) and woman (49) of Turkish origin had set up a business without having any recognition. They marketed the animals on websites such as Marktplaats. A victim contacted the couple and had to go to Antwerp to pay for the puppies.

She could then pick up the Pomeranians or Pomeranians in Hasselt. “When leaving the house, she was asked to hide the dogs behind her coat so that the neighbors would not see,” the lawsuit said.

Bulgaria

After a few days, one puppy became ill and died not much later. The vet determined that the dogs were much younger than stated. The other puppy turned out to be struggling with heart problems and would never be able to live a full life. A search turned up one Pomeranian and two more dogs. In the garage, investigators found traces that several dogs had stayed there. The woman’s mobile phone contained several messages indicating illegal trade.

Research revealed that the animals came from Bulgaria to Belgium. The woman eventually confessed to the facts. Investigators were unable to question her ex-husband because he currently resides in Turkey. He also defaulted on the trial.

19,000 euros

The woman was present at the trial. Through her lawyer, she stated that it was her husband who was in control. She herself would have received one Pomeranian for her help. The woman is said to have been mainly responsible for delivering and caring for the dogs. On Monday, the Hasselt criminal court ruled to impose 50 hours of community service on her.

“This way she can give something back free of charge to the society she harmed. Moreover, her social reintegration is not made more difficult by such punishment,” the verdict said.

If she does not carry out this community service, she will face a fine of 6,000 euros. In addition, the judge declared her financial gain of 1,250 euros forfeited. Her ex-husband was fined 8,000 euros. He also loses the 19,000 euros, or the amount left over from the trade.