SAMPSON RICHARDS CAUGHT IN PENRYN FOR ILLEGAL DEER HUNTING WITH DOGS

Sampson Richards, born on August 18, 1995, and residing at Liberty, Lestraynes Lane, Penryn TR10 9EL, has been convicted of a serious wildlife offence following an investigation by the RSPCA. The incident involved Richards encouraging his dog to chase and attack a young deer, an act that is illegal under the Deer Act 1991.

The case came to light after the RSPCA was alerted to disturbing video footage shared within a Facebook group. The footage, taken at night, depicts Richards' dog, a 13-month-old beige saluki cross lurcher named Butch, actively pursuing and biting a terrified deer. The video shows the dog shaking the animal vigorously while it screams in pain, with a male voice, presumably Richards, encouraging the dog throughout the attack. The footage concludes with the person filming stating, “It’s good for you to be able to see this,” revealing a disturbing attitude towards the animal cruelty.

Veterinary experts examined the footage as part of the investigation and provided a detailed statement to the court. They noted that the video lasted approximately 73 seconds but emphasized that this duration likely did not capture the entire incident. The vet explained that the footage probably started after the chase had already begun and that the deer was still alive at the end of the recording. The exact length of the chase and the method used to end the deer's suffering remain unknown, but the incident was undoubtedly prolonged and extremely distressing.

The investigation revealed that Richards was actively involved in illegal 'lamping,' a practice that involves using a specialized torch to facilitate the pursuit of wildlife, in this case, a deer. The torch used during the incident was later recovered from Richards' property. The vet's statement highlighted that Richards not only encouraged the dog to chase and attack the deer but also praised its actions, showing a blatant disregard for the animal's suffering. The deer was clearly terrified and endured significant pain and distress, yet Richards made no effort to intervene or stop the attack. No evidence suggested that the deer was swiftly and humanely dispatched; instead, it was left to suffer, with uncertainty about whether Richards or someone else ended its life by shooting or cutting its throat.

Animal welfare experts emphasized the cruelty of the act, noting that unlike domesticated animals, deer do not vocalize unless in pain, fear, or during mating season. The distress and suffering inflicted upon the deer were considered severe and unnecessary. The RSPCA spokesperson reiterated the importance of respecting wildlife and treating animals with kindness, stressing that animals experience pain just as humans do.

The legal charges against Richards specify that on or around November 21, 2022, near Liberty Barn on Lestraynes Lane in Penryn, Cornwall, he attempted to take, kill, or injure a deer without lawful authority, violating Section 1 (2)(a) of the Deer Act 1991. As part of the court's ruling, Richards' dog, Butch, was surrendered to the RSPCA for rehoming.

Sentencing for Richards included a 12-month community order, 180 hours of unpaid work, a fine of £400, a surcharge of £114, and the forfeiture and confiscation of the lamp used for lamping. The case underscores ongoing concerns about illegal wildlife hunting and animal cruelty in the Penryn area and highlights the efforts of authorities to combat such offences.