Staffordshire makes first successful prosecution for death of livestock by flooding

A man responsible for the death of livestock has been sentenced and a lifetime ban on keeping animals imposed in a case thought to be the first prosecution in the UK of a livestock keeper responsible for the death of animals by failing to remove them from land prone to flooding.

Anthony Russell, was sentenced on 18 November 2009 at Tamworth Magistrates Court after pleading guilty to six offences relating to animal cruelty.

The court heard that Russell had ignored warnings from neighbours and local residents about the safety of the sheep and left his livestock on flood plain fields next to the River Tame. According to the Staffordshire County Council, film footage used in evidence showed sheep being swept down the River Tame before they died.

Nick Cole, prosecuting for Staffordshire County Council, said an RSPCA officer who attended one of the locations had found it to be one of the most upsetting incidents he had witnessed since joining the organisation. It is not known exactly how many of Russell's animals drowned in total.

Imposing the sentence, chair of the magistrates Mrs Christine Warburton told Russell he was in a post of responsibility and ignored advice, causing serious injury and death to these animals.

County councillor Ben Adams, Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture said the series of incidents was distressing for local farmers and residents. “This case demonstrates that they will not hesitate to take action against any individual who neglects animals under their care,” Adams said.