ALFIE BRADFORD FROM MESSINGHAM CRUSHES GEESE AT CLEETHORPES BOATING LAKE

In a disturbing act of animal cruelty, Alfie Bradford, a resident of Messingham born around 2003, deliberately drove his vehicle into a group of geese at the car park near Cleethorpes boating lake. The incident, which took place on Sunday, October 24, 2021, resulted in the tragic death of one goose and injuries to five others. The shocking event was captured on camera, revealing Bradford’s malicious intent and callousness towards wildlife.

Following the incident, local charity Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue issued an appeal for information, which proved instrumental in identifying and apprehending Bradford. Initially, authorities considered not pursuing criminal charges against him; however, public outrage and concern prompted Humberside Police to revisit the case. As a result, Bradford was formally charged with multiple offenses, including driving without due care and attention, using a vehicle to pursue wild birds with the intent to kill, and the actual killing of a wild bird.

Bradford appeared before Grimsby Magistrates Court on January 12, 2022, where he faced these charges. Inspector Steve Peck commented on the case, describing the act as “cruel and selfish,” and expressed that it had caused understandable distress within the local community. He also extended gratitude to the initial caller who reported the incident and to the community members who supported the investigation and court proceedings.

In sentencing, Bradford was ordered to pay fines totaling £1,085 along with a victim surcharge. The case has drawn significant attention to the importance of protecting wildlife and serves as a warning to others who might consider harming animals for any reason.