JOHN BRYANT CONVICTED IN LINCOLNSHIRE FOR ILLEGAL WILDLIFE OFFENSES

Farmer and gamekeeper John Christopher Bryant, born April 1984 and residing at Brookside, Farthorpe, West Ashby, Horncastle LN9 5QB, was convicted in 2025 for crimes related to bird of prey persecution. Bryant, who is also a co-director of Grange Farms (West Ashby) Limited, was found to have used illegal pole traps designed to kill birds and had stored dangerous chemicals on his property.

The police discovered these items during an investigation prompted by the deaths of three protected birds of prey. The investigation led officers to Bryant’s estate in West Ashby, Horncastle.

Bryant pleaded guilty to two charges and was convicted of two additional counts under the Wildlife and Countryside Act as well as Healthy and Safety Regulations. The deceased birds – a red kite and two buzzards – were found just north of West Ashby. Forensic analysis confirmed the birds had been poisoned.

On October 4, 2022, a search warrant was executed at Bryant’s land, uncovering items indicative of efforts to poison and trap birds of prey. Lincolnshire’s Rural Crime Action Team, in collaboration with the RSPB, the National Wildlife Crime Unit, and Natural England inspectors, participated in the operation.

Among the findings was Alphachloralose, a chemical typically used for rodent control but also known as a common poison for birds of prey. The chemical was found in Bryant’s vehicle and in a second container located in his garage. Analyses revealed the substance was over 80% concentration, making it a banned and highly toxic substance.

Illegal traps were also recovered, including two pole traps placed near pheasant release pens. These traps contained DNA from tawny owls and pigeons, indicating they were used to target protected bird species.

Bryant admitted to storing Alphachloralose and was convicted of two counts related to this. He was also found guilty of possessing spring traps tethered to poles, violating health and safety and wildlife legislation. However, he was found not guilty of additional counts involving the same substances and traps.

As a result of his conviction, Bryant is now prohibited from using a General Licence for vermin control.

Chief Inspector Kevin Lacks-Kelly, head of the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit, stated: “Thanks to the work of police and partners, we have delivered justice. This conviction sends a strong message that bird of prey crime will not be tolerated, and offenders will face full enforcement action. These offences are not only cruel but also jeopardize the survival of our vulnerable wildlife. These birds should be free for all to enjoy, not kept as evidence.”

Howard Jones, Senior Investigations Officer for the RSPB, commented: “We are extremely satisfied with the sentence. The health and safety issues uncovered during the police operation underlined the importance of acting on credible information.”

In sentencing, Bryant was ordered to pay fines totaling £2,112, a victim surcharge of £845, and prosecution costs exceeding £4,000.

(Source: BBC News, Lincolnshire Police, Protect the Wild)