A man who brutally killed two defenceless herring gulls before impaling one on a fence has been jailed after being branded “appalling” by police officers investigating the case.
Terrence Johnston cruelly attacked the chicks on a street in Sunderland in July this year.
The 41-year-old climbed a fence and caught a young gull before killing it and impaling it on the railings.
He then grabbed a second bird, swung it around and hit it off a surface before throwing it over the fence – causing fatal injuries.
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After the violent outburst, Johnston, of Lewis Crescent, Sunderland, was arrested and later admitted to the killing of two wild birds when he appeared before magistrates in South Tyneside last Monday (October 3).
On the same day, he was jailed for 16 weeks.
Following the court judgement, rural engagement and wildlife enforcement officer, PC Peter Baker, has condemned the actions of Johnston and called on others who attack animals to face similar consequences.
He said: “This is an appalling case, and I am pleased Johnston’s actions have led to a jail term. There is never any excuse for this kind of abhorrent abuse.
“Both gulls were juveniles and had only recently fledged their nests. It is possible that they were not yet able to fully fly – so were defenceless.
“I sincerely hope this case sends out a strong message to everyone. Wildlife crime is something we take seriously, and we are committed to taking swift and robust action against anyone who hurts or abuses animals.
“We will continue to work with our colleagues and partners, including the RSPCA, to educate those across our region of the importance of looking after animals.
“I’d like to thank the public for their ongoing cooperation and would encourage any incidents of animal abuse or cruelty to be reported to us or the RSPCA, so we can investigate, and action can be taken.”
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