An investigation into a £850,000 Essex Live reports fraud uncovered a freezer full of 'dead puppies'.
Four individuals pleaded guilty to charges relating to the fraudulent sale of puppies at Basildown Crown Court.
Gang members Stacey Hayward, 41, of Colliford Road, West Thurrock, Steven Foster, 42, also of Colliford Road, Kelly Bennett, 43, and Ricky Bennett, 41, both of Weymouth Drive, Chafford Hundred, were all brought to trial over the illegal operation.