SONNY-JOE BARNEY FROM VERWOOD BANNED FROM FARM LAND AND ANIMAL POSSESSION AFTER CRUEL CHICKEN ATTACK
Sonny-Joe Barney, a resident of Verwood born on March 18, 2003, has been involved in a disturbing incident that led to his conviction and subsequent legal restrictions.Barney, who is known to be a traveller, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a chicken by releasing his dogs to attack and kill the bird.
The incident took place in a field on July 7, 2022, and was uncovered during an investigation by Dorset Police’s rural crime team, which was initially looking into hare coursing activities in the area.
According to court records, Barney’s actions directly resulted in the death of the chicken, an act that the authorities classified as animal cruelty.
The police investigation revealed evidence suggesting that Barney had set his dogs upon the defenseless bird, an act that demonstrated a blatant disregard for animal welfare.
The case was brought before Poole Magistrates Court, where Barney pleaded guilty to the charge of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal.
In sentencing, Barney received a 12-month community order, which includes 20 days of rehabilitation activities aimed at addressing his behavior.
Additionally, he was issued a 12-month disqualification order that prohibits him from transporting, owning, or keeping dogs or chickens, effectively preventing him from engaging in activities involving these animals for a year.
Further legal measures were taken in July 2023, when Barney was served with a criminal behaviour order (CBO).
This order, valid for five years, explicitly bans him from possessing wild animals, wild birds, or any parts thereof, whether living or dead.
It also forbids him from knowingly possessing a catapult or ammunition such as ball bearings or hunting lamps, including in vehicles, especially in areas accessible to the public or private land where trespassing occurs.
Moreover, Barney is prohibited from allowing any dog under his control to be off a lead unless on private land with the landowner’s written permission, which must be available for police inspection.
He is also barred from entering private farmland, agricultural, or forestry land without explicit written permission from the landowner or relevant authority, and this permission must be presented upon request to police officers.
If Barney breaches any of these conditions, he faces arrest and potential reappearance in court.
Dorset Police’s Rural Crime Team, led by Constable Lauren Middleton, emphasized the importance of these restrictions.
Middleton stated, “Our investigation revealed evidence that Barney was believed to be involved in hare coursing, and the offence for which he has been convicted shows that he has little regard for the welfare of animals.
We have worked hard to compile evidence and secure this order from the court, which we hope will assist in stopping the defendant from reoffending in the future.” She also expressed gratitude to Dorset Council’s Community Safety Team for their assistance in securing the order.
Middleton concluded by urging the rural community to remain vigilant and report any suspected breaches of the court order, emphasizing that such cooperation is vital in maintaining safety and animal welfare in the area.
