Tony James Billington, 52, of Preston, was convicted of night poaching at North Cumbria Magistrates Court yesterday (1 October) and was fined £440 and ordered to pay costs of £150.
On the 11th October 2019, officers were called to a report of poaching on North Stainmoor. Following a stop and search on Billington’s vehicle, he was found to be in possession of a quantity of deceased game including thirty rabbits, two brown hares and three grey partridge.
Sergeant Adrian Dobson said: “I am pleased with the result received at court yesterday. I hope this sends a message to those who are involved in this type of illegal activity that it will not be tolerated and those who commit such offences can expect to appear at court.
“Unfortunately, it is likely that as the nights get darker over the coming weeks, we will see an increase in poaching, so I ask that the public remain vigilant, and report any concerns to the police.
“Poaching is often used as a gateway to other rural crime such as machinery and diesel theft, so it is important that those involved are identified to reduce this type of crime”.
