A 25-year-old man was caught trespassing on a farm after setting off an alarm installed by farmers who had concerns about their livestock.
Liam Brown entered a farm in Burton, near Christchurch, Dorset, late at night. He was unaware that the farm had a new surveillance system in place.
The system alerted the farmers, who quickly arrived at the scene and found Brown on the property. A sample taken from one of the animals later confirmed the incident took place on June 12, 2022.
Brown appeared in Poole Magistrates Court, where he became emotional while pleading guilty to unlawful entry and causing harm to a protected animal. The court decided the case should be sent to Bournemouth Crown Court for sentencing, as magistrates felt a stricter penalty might be necessary.
Prosecutor Charles Nightingale explained that the farm owners had installed alarms and cameras due to past concerns about their animals’ well-being.
He noted that Brown had been familiar with the farm for years since members of his family had previously worked there.
Mr. Nightingale stated, “The defendant has known the farm owners for a long time, as his family members were once employed there.”
He added, “The farmers had concerns about their young livestock and set up an alarm system. On the night in question, the system was triggered, and they arrived to find the defendant on the premises.”
After Brown was found, samples were taken from one of the animals, confirming the incident.
The court was also informed that Brown had no prior criminal record and had not attempted to return to the farm since that night.
Mr. Nightingale further mentioned, “The farm owners do not want the defendant anywhere near their property.”
Defense attorney Harry Price-Smith agreed that the matter should be handled by a higher court. Brown was granted unconditional bail until his sentencing date.
The magistrates addressed Brown, stating, “The case is being sent to crown court because the nature of the offences means a stronger punishment may be necessary.”
Brown, who resides in Grosvenor Gardens, Bournemouth, is scheduled for sentencing on September 22.