WEST MIDLANDS BADGER BAITER DANIEL LEA JAILED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY AND BADGER PERSECUTION
In February 2025, officers from the RSPCA’s Special Operations Unit (SOU) visited Lea’s home in collaboration with West Midlands Police after receiving reports that a patterdale terrier named Rocco had been involved in activities related to wildlife hunting, including badgers.RSPCA SOU Inspector Mike Scargill recounted discovering several videos on Lea’s mobile device, which showed the defendant encouraging Rocco to attack a badger on multiple occasions, as well as footage of Lea digging to locate badgers and damaging a badger sett.
Veterinary assessments of Rocco showed injuries on his face, particularly around the lips, along with wounds and swelling on his back and chest.
The dog also had extensive scarring, wounds on his face, and numerous scabs across his body.
Lea admitted to committing two animal welfare offences and 16 violations under the Badger Act during the RSPCA’s prosecution.
After sentencing, Inspector Scargill commented: “The harm caused to both wildlife and dogs in this case is deeply upsetting.
All animals deserve to be treated with kindness, compassion, and respect.
We hope this outcome acts as a warning that such cruelty is illegal and will not be tolerated.” Sentencing included a 20-month prison term and a 10-year ban on owning animals.
