Ex-Model Marsh Denies Assault Charges Amid Sanctuary Row

Jodie Marsh, a former glamour model and media personality, appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court on April 17, 2026, to plead not guilty to one count of assault and two counts of using threatening language. The charges are connected to an alleged altercation with a neighbour concerning her animal sanctuary, Fripps Farm, located in Lindsell, Essex.

Marsh, 47, claims her neighbour trespassed and filmed animals at her sanctuary, allegedly manipulating footage to portray them as 'skeletal'. She told the court she only placed her hand on the neighbour's neck briefly while speaking, insisting she did not cause harm. Deputy district judge Rhys Rosser released Marsh on unconditional bail until her next hearing, scheduled for May 7, 2027, at Colchester Magistrates' Court.

She has previously blamed online trolls for issues surrounding her sanctuary, which houses over 250 rescued animals. Marsh stated her lifelong dream was to run an animal sanctuary, a path she chose after her mother's death. The court previously noted 'considerable animosity' between Marsh and local community members but acknowledged her genuine care for animals.

Marsh has also faced scrutiny over animal welfare, including an application for lemurs that was initially rejected but later overturned. She also addressed past incidents, such as taking a meerkat to a pub, explaining it was due to hand-rearing the animal. Funds for the sanctuary have been partly raised through platforms like OnlyFans.