Numerous dead animals were discovered outside a local store, leading to the arrest of a guy.
Earlier this month, the remains of over fifty dead hares, a kestrel, and a barn owl were left outside the Broughton Community Shop in Hampshire.
A Totton resident, 37, has been placed under custody on suspicion of seven offences.
These comprise a number of offences pertaining to animal welfare and poaching in addition to one involving firearms.
Warning: This story contains graphic images that some readers may find upsetting.
“Since this incident took place, we have been actively pursuing a number of lines of enquiry and working with partner agencies to establish the circumstances of what happened,” said Hampshire & Isle of Wight Country Watch sergeant Stuart Ross.We would like to express our gratitude to the local community for their assistance and for their patience as we look into what transpired.
The individual has been detained for a number of offences, including criminal damage, night poaching, killing a schedule 1 bird, violating the Animal Welfare Act, murdering brown hares during the restricted season, and violating the Firearms Act.
The barn owl and kestrel were examined as part of an inquiry by Hampshire Constabulary, and it was discovered that both birds had been shot with a firearm.
The Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 lists the kestrel and barn owl on Schedule 1, providing them with legal protection.
On March 15, volunteers at Broughton Community Shop discovered the animals strewn outside their establishment.
Following the circulation of images of the scenario on social media, there was a public outrage.
Retail treasurer Mike Hensman described it as “devastating” for the employees, but environmentalist Chris Packham described it as “horrific on so many levels” on X.
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