MYLES O’CONNOR OF MELROSE ACQUITTED IN FOX HUNTING CASE NEAR KELSO

Myles O’Connor, a resident of Melrose, was formally cleared of allegations that he participated in illegal fox hunting activities with dogs during an incident that took place near Hume, close to Kelso, on December 22, 2021. The case drew significant attention due to the contentious nature of fox hunting and the emotional debates surrounding the practice.

O’Connor, who was previously associated with the Buccleuch Hunt based in the Scottish Borders, faced accusations stemming from footage captured by investigators from the League Against Cruel Sports (LACS). The footage reportedly showed a hound picking up a scent and beginning to chase a fox, with claims that no efforts were made by hunt members to halt the pursuit. The incident was filmed during a period when hunt activities were under scrutiny, and the footage was used as evidence in the trial.

It was alleged that O’Connor was involved in the hunt, but during the proceedings, his legal representatives argued that he did not witness the hound chasing the fox. Mark Moir KC, representing O’Connor, emphasized in his closing statement that his client was not deliberately encouraging or participating in the illegal hunt, as he did not see the specific act of the hound pursuing the fox. The court was presented with the challenge of determining whether O’Connor had direct knowledge of the chase.

After reviewing the evidence, Sheriff Peter Paterson delivered a verdict of not guilty. In his judgment, the sheriff acknowledged the highly emotive and divisive nature of such cases but clarified that the court’s role was to apply the law impartially. He stated, “It is well known that cases of this nature involve highly emotive issues with a clear polar divide. That is not a matter for the court. It is for the court to apply the law.”

Sheriff Paterson further explained that the case did not require the application of the 2002 Hunting Act, which has been a point of contention in such prosecutions. Instead, the decision hinged on whether O’Connor had witnessed the hound pursuing the fox. The sheriff concluded that he was satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that O’Connor did not see the chase and, had he seen it, he would have taken action to stop the hound. Consequently, he found no grounds to convict.

It was also noted that O’Connor, who provided an address in Melrose, is no longer affiliated with the Buccleuch Hunt. Instead, he is believed to be working for the Old Berkshire Hunt, based in Faringdon, Oxfordshire.

Robbie Marsland, the director of LACS, expressed disappointment over the verdict, describing it as “yet another not guilty verdict.” He emphasized the ongoing need for stronger legislation, advocating for a new law to replace the 2002 Act, which he claims has resulted in only one successful prosecution for mounted fox hunting. The case highlights the continuing legal and ethical debates surrounding fox hunting practices in the UK.