DONCASTER BADGER BULLIES BARRY SCOTT, LIAM SMITH, AND DANIEL DAVEY FACE JUSTICE IN SHOCKING ANIMAL CRUELTY CASE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Doncaster, three men—Barry Scott, Liam Smith, and Daniel Davey—were brought before the court to answer charges related to animal cruelty and illegal hunting activities. The incident, which took place in the Whitwell area, involved the deliberate interference with a badger sett and the infliction of unnecessary suffering on a dog, all of which occurred on the 30th of November, 2011.

According to court proceedings, the trio arrived at the scene equipped with spades and tracking devices, indicating premeditation and intent to locate and disturb badgers. The case revealed that a terrier-type dog, used in the pursuit, suffered severe facial injuries after being forced into a badger sett, highlighting the brutal nature of their actions.

All three defendants admitted to the charges, claiming that their actions stemmed from reckless behavior rather than malicious intent. However, the RSPCA, which prosecuted the case, argued that there was clear evidence of deliberate cruelty. A mini-trial was conducted to establish the specifics of what transpired, during which Daniel Paul Davey was described as the 'prime mover' behind the illegal activities, actively leading the efforts to persecute the badgers.

During the court hearing, Deputy District Judge Goodman noted that the defendants had lied about their intentions, with Davey appearing to be the main instigator. Liam Smith was identified as a willing participant, while Barry Scott was seen as someone who allowed himself to be influenced by the others.

In sentencing, Daniel Davey and Liam Smith received custodial sentences of 20 weeks each. Barry Scott was given a 16-week jail term, which was suspended for a year, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed another offense within that period. Additionally, Scott was ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid community work and pay costs of £250. All three men were also banned from keeping animals indefinitely, and authorities seized six dogs in connection with the case.

This case has brought to light the ongoing issue of illegal badger baiting and animal cruelty in the Doncaster area, prompting calls for stricter enforcement and greater awareness to prevent such heinous acts from recurring.