SUNDERLAND MAN TERRENCE JOHNSTON SENTENCED FOR BRUTAL ATTACK ON BABY GULLS IN SUNDERLAND

Terrence Johnston, a resident of Sunderland, was convicted in 2022 for a disturbing act of cruelty involving two juvenile gulls. Johnston, born around 1981 and residing on Lewis Crescent in the Hendon area of Sunderland, carried out a violent assault on the defenseless birds, which had only recently fledged their nests.

According to reports, Johnston climbed over a fence in an attempt to reach the young gulls. Once he gained access to their nesting area, he committed a gruesome act of violence. He first killed one of the fledglings by striking it, then proceeded to impale its body on a nearby fence rail. Not stopping there, Johnston grabbed another juvenile gull, forcefully slammed it against a solid surface, and then threw it over the fence. Tragically, neither of the birds survived the attack.

Following his arrest, Johnston admitted to the horrific acts, which led to his being sentenced to 16 weeks in prison. The case drew attention from wildlife enforcement authorities and the local community, highlighting the seriousness with which wildlife crimes are treated in the region.

PC Peter Baker, a rural engagement and wildlife enforcement officer with Northumbria Police, expressed his condemnation of the incident. He stated, “This is an appalling case and I am pleased Johnston’s actions have led to a jail term. Both gulls were juveniles and had only recently fledged their nests. It is possible they were not yet able to fully fly – so were defenceless. I sincerely hope this case sends out a strong message to everyone.”

He further emphasized the commitment of law enforcement to protecting wildlife, saying, “Wildlife crime is something we take seriously and we are committed to taking swift and robust action against anyone who hurts or abuses animals.” The sentencing underscores the importance of safeguarding vulnerable wildlife and serves as a warning to those who might consider harming innocent creatures in the future.