MATTHEW VANN, ELLIE SCORER AND LEWIS HILL CAUGHT POACHING IN DONCASTER

In a serious case of wildlife crime, three individuals from Doncaster—Matty Vann, Ellie Scorer, and Lewis Hill—were found guilty of engaging in illegal hunting activities involving wild mammals. The incident, which took place on the night of December 21, 2020, has brought to light the dangers and consequences of poaching in the region.

Matty Vann, born on April 13, 1995, residing at 6 The Boulevard, Doncaster DN3 2QH, along with Ellie May Scorer, born on May 16, 2000, of Tennyson Road, Bentley, Doncaster DN5 0EG, and Lewis Mathew Hill, born on June 20, 2000, of Bentley Road, Doncaster DN5, were all convicted of hunting wild mammals with dogs and killing a deer during nighttime hours. The case was rooted in reports received by local authorities about suspicious activity involving a vehicle and the sounds of animals being attacked.

According to police reports, officers responded swiftly to the scene and intercepted a Subaru Forester, which was found to contain the three suspects along with four lurcher-type dogs and several high-powered lamps used for night hunting. An inspection of the surrounding farmland revealed significant damage to the crops, caused by the vehicle's tires compacting the soil, rendering the land unsuitable for planting. Additionally, the body of a deceased deer was discovered nearby, indicating the brutal nature of the illegal activity.

Special Chief Inspector O’Neill, who led the investigation, emphasized the seriousness of such crimes, stating, “Night-time poaching is not a harmless, victimless crime and it is something we will take seriously. Having a 4×4 vehicle tearing through a field is frightening for nearby residents who have no idea what the occupants’ intentions are. In this instance, a deer suffered a cruel and painful death having been mauled by large dogs, and damage was caused to the farmer’s crop by the soil being compacted by the tyres, making it unsuitable for crop growth.”

He further expressed satisfaction that the court recognized the impact of wildlife crime on the local community and environment. “I hope this will deter others from entering our area for illegal activities and that they are aware we will use all available tools to secure convictions,” he added. The police also extended their gratitude to the Country Watch members from Swinefleet and the Isle of Axholme, whose vigilance and proactive reporting played a crucial role in bringing the offenders to justice.

In terms of sentencing, Vann, Scorer, and Hill each received an eight-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months. They were also ordered to participate in a rehabilitation activity, forfeit their lamps used during the poaching, pay costs amounting to £600, and provide £120 in compensation for the damage caused. This case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and community members to combat wildlife crime and protect the natural environment of Doncaster and its surrounding areas.