Northern Ireland

Woman (23) convicted after four sheep had to be put down

A 23-year-old woman has been convicted after four sheep had to be euthanized
A 23-year-old woman has been convicted after four sheep had to be euthanized A 23-year-old woman has been convicted after four sheep had to be euthanized

A 23-YEAR-OLD woman has been convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to four sheep.

Sarah Jane Watson of Ballynease Road, Portglenone, Co Antrim, was convicted at Ballymena Magistrates' Court yesterday.

She was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to four sheep and one charge of failing to ensure the needs of a sheep were met.

Ms Watson was fined £500 and disqualified from keeping animals for seven years.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs said the case began following a complaint sent to Coleraine Veterinary Office.

During a welfare inspection, a vet had to euthanize four sheep.