MAN ADMITS PERFORMING SEX ACT ON SEAGULL
A man from Sunderland has admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to a wild bird after engaging in a bizarre sexual act involving a seagull.David Lee, aged 40 and residing on Roker Avenue, appeared at South Tyneside Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, 25 April.
He faced charges of committing a sexual act on a herring gull that resulted in undue harm to the bird.
CCTV footage shown during the hearing depicted Lee kneeling in an alleyway near Gladstone Street, Sunderland, around 1am, with a wild bird positioned between his legs.
Prosecutor Lesley Burgess explained that Lee chased a bird before choosing a smaller gull.
The footage also revealed him looking at his phone while holding the bird and performing a sexual act.
After completing the act, Lee reportedly pulled up his trousers and kicked the bird.
He was later arrested at a nearby takeaway shop.
According to police, Lee claimed he picked up the gull because he thought it was injured and was checking his phone for instructions.
However, police investigations found that instead of looking up veterinary contacts, Lee was browsing pornography sites, the court was told.
He was charged under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 with wantonly or unreasonably performing a sexual act on a wild bird, causing unnecessary suffering.
Defence solicitor Annalisa Moscardini stated Lee “cannot explain his actions” and mentioned he has a history of mental health issues.
She indicated she was seeking a psychiatric assessment for him.
Magistrate Fay Gilbert remarked on the unusual nature of the case, describing it as one of the most bizarre she had encountered.
She emphasised that the act appeared to be a deliberate attempt to harm the animal and suggested a psychiatric report was appropriate.
The case was adjourned for sentencing to 23 May, with Lee released on unconditional bail.
Prosecutors indicated they intend to seek an order banning Lee from owning animals.
North East animal rights advocate Anna Malia condemned Lee’s conduct, highlighting the cruelty and brutality involved and praising police efforts to bring the case to court.
She stressed that wildlife offenders will be pursued and prosecuted with publicity that supports animal welfare causes.
