Police failings after farmer left fox to rot in a snare

In mid December the National Anti Snaring Campaign received information that a fox had been left to rot on a fence line adjoining a footpath at Midway Farm, Stoke St Michael, Somerset. A further live fox was also discovered, but released.

Decomposing fox trapped in an animal snare at Midway Farm, Stoke St Michael, Somerset
Fox trapped in an unchecked snare at Midway Farm, Stoke St. Michael, Somerset

We informed the police and included a map, and PC Blight went to investigate. He later later claimed he could find no snares, but spoke to landowner Roger Heal of Midway Farm, Stoke St Michael, who admitted he had forgotten to remove the decomposing snared fox, and would do so. PC Blight then only reminded the landowner to check his snares every day in future.

Decomposing fox trapped in an animal snare at Midway Farm, Stoke St Michael, Somerset
Decomposing fox trapped in an animal snare at Midway Farm, Stoke St Michael, Somerset

NASC complained to Avon and Somerset Police that when the officer could not find the snared fox, we should have been contacted for further information, that a prosecution opportunity was missed, and even the DEFRA code of practice that prohibits snares being set on a fence line was not relayed to the landowner.

Following investigation by the Professional Standards we have received an apology from Avon and Somerset Police but that is little comfort to the foxes that will have suffered terribly in these snares:

“I have investigated the fact that PC Blight failed to act in line with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1984 and the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and DEFRA Codes of practice. I have examined the crime report 5217289035 which records his actions and spoken to him about the incident.

He was unaware of the DEFRA Codes of practice and did not discuss these with the landowner. I have asked him to re-attend and do so.

Midway Farm, Stoke St Michael, Somerset, animal snare map
Snare location: Midway Farm, Stoke St Michael, Somerset,

Unfortunately, due to his actions at the time we have no evidence to proceed with a prosecution under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and the Animal Welfare Act 2006. I have arranged for him to receive further training on these to Acts to avoid this happening again. Along with the rest of the team so that the knowledge gap in this area is filled.

In relation, to PC Blight, not contacting you to obtain further information at the time. I have spoken to PC Blight and he admits he did not do this and this was a failing on his part for which he apologises.”

Conclusion: Simon Wild, a spokesman for the National Anti Snaring Campaign said: “This case shows the law and codes of practice do not protect wildlife from extreme suffering and only a complete ban on snaring will work.”

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