First ever conviction for fox hunting in Lincolnshire
A 59 year old man has been found guilty
For the first time in Lincolnshire there's been a conviction for fox hunting.
A 59 year old man who's a member of the Burton hunt denied the charge but has been found guilty and ordered to pay around 15 hundred pounds in fines and costs.
It's after footage from hunt saboteurs was shown during his trial at Lincoln Magistrates.
The trial lasted 2 days.
DC Aaron Flint, of Lincolnshire police's Rural Crime Action Team, said:
“We simply will not tolerate illegal fox hunting in Lincolnshire; it is a barbaric and savage activity. I hope this conviction sends a clear message that we will take anyone to court who, when the evidence allows, has taken part in such a cruel and primitive pursuit.
“The burden of proof for a court is beyond reasonable doubt and today they found that fox hunting had taken place.
“We will continue to monitor hunts closely and take robust and positive action against those who break the law.
“I would like to thank the witnesses who came forward and gave me the footage, this allowed me to carry out my investigation and I hope provides them with confidence that we will act when we can."
"I continue to appeal for any suspicious activity relating to foxhunting to be reported, this helps to identify where to focus our resources.”