Why was Racster Dingwall fined by the court?

Racster Dingwall was fined by the court for possessing a shotgun for the purpose of killing a wild bird and encouraging others to become involved in harming protected hen harriers.

What role did the RSPB play in the prosecution?

The RSPB provided covert footage, captured by video equipment they installed due to concerns about missing hen harriers, which led to the UK-first prosecution.

What are the consequences for Dingwall's actions?

Dingwall was ordered to pay a total of £1,520 in fines, victim surcharge, and costs, and has lost his job and accommodation.

Home / Crime and Justice / Gamekeeper Filmed Plotting Bird Slaughter

Gamekeeper Filmed Plotting Bird Slaughter

29 Jan

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Summary

Gamekeeper recorded planning to kill protected hen harriers.
RSPB covert footage led to a UK-first prosecution.
He was fined £1,520 and lost his job and home.

Gamekeeper Filmed Plotting Bird Slaughter

Racster Dingwall, a 35-year-old gamekeeper, has been fined £1,520 by York Magistrates' Court for planning to harm hen harriers, protected birds. Covert footage captured by the RSPB on Grassington Moor in North Yorkshire on October 2, 2024, led to a prosecution. Dingwall was filmed in camouflage gear discussing shooting the raptors on his radio, expressing concerns about satellite tags.

He admitted possessing a shotgun to kill wild birds and encouraging others. The RSPB had installed video equipment due to over 100 hen harriers disappearing in recent years. Dingwall, who has lost his job and home, was sentenced by District Judge Adrian Lower, who acknowledged controversies surrounding hen harrier management but stressed Dingwall's responsibilities. The RSPB highlighted this as the first prosecution involving a Schedule 1 bird in England, calling for licensed estates.

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