NSW man found guilty of hunting and animal cruelty offences
19/07/2016
An 18 year old man from Barooga NSW has been found guilty, convicted and fined $3,500 in Cobram Magistrates court for a range of hunting and animal cruelty offences.
An 18 year old man from Barooga NSW has been found guilty, convicted and fined $3,500 in Cobram Magistrates court for a range of hunting and animal cruelty offences.
The offences include hunting without a game licence, hunting game at night, failing to immediately destroy game on recovery and aggravated cruelty.
Game Management Authority (GMA) Chief Executive Officer Greg Hyams said the man was originally identified by Victoria Police while investigating an unrelated matter involving another man.
Evidence obtained implicated the Barooga man in illegal hunting and animal cruelty offences that took place last September.
“Victoria Police provided GMA Game Officers with evidence which showed three men illegally hunting a deer at night with a spotlight and using dogs to take down and maul the deer to death over several minutes”, Mr Hyams said.
“This type of behavior will not be tolerated and the court result sends a strong message to anyone who hunts with dogs that it is unacceptable to allow a dog to attack any wildlife, including deer.”
“Deer can only be destroyed by licensed hunters or landowners using prescribed, humane methods only.”
“While accepted dog breeds can be used to help locate, flush or track deer, it is an offence for any dog to attack, bite or maim deer or any wildlife in Victoria.”
“Any dog used in hunting must not show signs of aggression and hunters must keep their dogs under control at all times. This man showed no regard for the welfare of the deer and a total lack of respect for animals and hunting in general.”
Anyone who witnesses suspected illegal hunting activity is encouraged to report it by calling the GMA Customer Service Centre on 136 186, visiting www.gma.vic.gov.au or contacting Victoria Police.
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