LANDMARK SCOTLAND CONVICTION FOR ILLEGAL DEER HUNTING WITH DOG
A man from Caithness, Nickolas Chenier, has made history as the first individual in Scotland to be convicted and sentenced under the new hunting legislation.The incident involved his dog attacking and killing a deer during an illegal hare coursing activity.
The dog, a golden lurcher, was seen chasing a roe deer into the Olrig cemetery car park before members of the public intervened.
Chenier then killed the deer with a knife and loaded it into his van.
DNA evidence, including hair and bone fragments found at the scene and an hangin carcass in Chenier's outbuilding, linked him to the crime.
During court proceedings at Wick Sheriff Court, Chenier admitted to using his dog for hare coursing, which is a serious wildlife crime under the Hunting With Dogs (Scotland) Act passed in 2023.
Witnesses observed the dog dragging and biting the injured deer which was unable to run effectively due to a broken leg.
Chenier's actions resulted in a fine of £790 and a ban from owning or controlling a dog for five years.
Officials from the Crown Office emphasized the significance of this first conviction and the role of DNA evidence in securing justice.
Police Constable Erin Robinson condemned the act as barbaric with no societal place and highlighted ongoing efforts to combat wildlife crime.
The case underscores the dangers and cruelty of illegal hunting practices and aims to send a strong message about enforcement and animal welfare.
