NATALIE HERRON SENTENCED IN AIRDRIE FOR HORRIFIC ONLINE MONKEY TORTURE CASE

A woman from Airdrie has been formally sentenced in connection with the possession and distribution of disturbing online material depicting the torture of monkeys, marking a historic first in Scotland for such a case.

Natalie Herron, aged 39, received a sentence of two years and three months at Airdrie Sheriff Court on Tuesday, 10 June, 2025. Her conviction follows her guilty plea on Tuesday, 13 May, 2025, to charges related to the distribution and possession of obscene publications between December 2021 and September 2022.

The investigation into Herron’s activities was part of a broader operation conducted in collaboration with the National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU). Herron was arrested on Wednesday, 7 September, 2022, after authorities acted on intelligence provided by the National Crime Agency (NCA).

This case is unprecedented in Scotland, as it is the first instance where an individual has been sentenced for cruelty that occurred outside the country’s borders, setting a significant legal precedent.

Law enforcement officials described the case as one of the most disturbing they have encountered. The material involved was described as unlike anything they had seen before, highlighting the severity and graphic nature of the content.

Detective Sergeant Karen Murray emphasized the complexity of the investigation, stating, “This was a long and complex investigation which involved a number of organisations including the NCA and the NWCU and was the first of its kind in the UK.” She added, “Thanks to the work of these organisations, Herron will now face the consequences of her actions, which contributed to the cruel torture and immense suffering of innocent animals.”

Sergeant Murray also expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort, noting, “Through dedicated police work, the investigation team was able to show that Herron was watching and distributing this horrific material. I would like to thank all who contributed to this case.” She further stated, “This is one of the most disturbing and graphic cases we have worked on, and we hope this sentence demonstrates that even if the cruelty took place abroad, such crimes will not be tolerated. We will utilize all available tools to hold offenders accountable.”

Detective Inspector Mark Harrison from the NWCU commented on the case’s disturbing nature, saying, “This investigation is truly shocking and unsettling. Those involved are not just motivated by money; some derive gratification from watching animals being tortured and sharing these images with others.” He highlighted the broader implications, noting, “Recent media reports have documented the impact of such online images, especially on young people, and there are established links between animal cruelty and violence towards humans. We take these crimes very seriously.”

Harrison also acknowledged the international scope of the investigation, stating, “This case is part of a larger transnational effort that the NWCU has been assisting with. We thank Police Scotland for their dedication and hard work. Working on cases like this can have a profound impact on those involved, but it is essential to pursue justice.”

In addition to Herron’s sentencing, two women involved in a global monkey torture ring received prison sentences at Worcester Crown Court on 13 November, 2024. One woman, aged 37, was sentenced to two years, while another, aged 55, received a sentence of one year and three months.

Authorities urge the public to report any concerns related to this type of behavior. Police Scotland can be contacted at 101 for any information or assistance regarding animal cruelty or related crimes.