Officers of Northern Constabulary stated today that they were pleased with the outcome at Lerwick Sheriff Court regarding the recent seal killing case at East Linga, Whalsay, Shetland, where sentence was deferred on local crofter/fisherman, James Stewart.
Several agencies were involved in the investigation after 21 baby seals were discovered having been clubbed to death.
A police spokesman stated that he was appreciative of the assistance rendered from the Procurator Fiscal, Scottish Natural Heritage, SSPCA and Veterinary Services during the investigation. He stated:
“This case was a thorough investigation into a serious case of cruelty to animals, which was followed by a robust prosecution. Following consultation with the Procurator Fiscal, Mr Duncan Mackenzie, he took the courageous step of testing the Wild Mammals Protection Act of 1996. As a Force, we are committed to a proactive approach to Wildlife Crime. It will not be tolerated.”
Chair: Jim Ferguson
“Each pup had extensive head injuries. There were several depressions on the skull. consistent with being struck repeatedly. One of the pups effectively had its face moulded to the rock it was lying on, such had been the impact,” Mr Mackenzie said.
“when he saw he was being observed he realised that what he was doing was wrong.”
“Dropping the post he appeared to run off in an attempt to hide.”
I don’t accept that he could suddenly realise when watched that what he was doing was wrong he must have known from the moment he hatched his evil and barbaric plan of action. Instead of running off like the coward he is he should face up to his actions this man should carry this burden and dip his head in shame of his actions for the rest of his life,
This is an issue that the civilised world should speak out against.