Home / Crime and Justice / Man Sentenced for Dumping Protected Birds, Hares
Man Sentenced for Dumping Protected Birds, Hares
23 Jun
Summary
- A father of three received a 15-month community order.
- Protected barn owl and kestrel found with 50 dead hares.
- DNA on birds linked defendant to the March 2024 incident.
A father of three, James Kempster, 39, has been handed a 15-month community order for possessing two protected birds. The barn owl and kestrel, along with 50 dead hares, were discovered outside Broughton Community Shop in March 2024.
Kempster was convicted after a trial at Southampton Magistrates' Court. DNA found on the birds, which were dumped early on March 15, 2024, was linked to him. He was found not guilty of criminal damage, clearing him of direct involvement in the shop's incident.
During sentencing, the court noted Kempster's previous convictions and minimal cooperation. He was also given a six-month electronic tag, a £120 fine, £650 in costs, and a £114 court surcharge for the wildlife offenses.
