Woman fined and given community order after dogs killed 35 sheep

A woman whose dogs killed 35 sheep and injured 14 more after being dangerously out of control has been fined and given a community order.

Linda Lawrence, 66, of Stansfield, was arrested on 19 July last year after incidents on farmland in the area involving dogs which led to sheep being killed and injured.

Lawrence was subsequently charged and in March she pleaded guilty to criminal damage and owning a dog dangerously out of control at Ipswich Crown Court. 

Lawrence was sentenced at the same court on Thursday 7 May, where she was was handed an 18-month community order and will have to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work, as well as take part in 20 rehabilitation days. She was also subject to an indefinite ban on dog ownership and ordered to pay £1,224 in compensation to the owner of the sheep, as well as a further £1,000 in costs.

Sergeant Chris Green of Suffolk Constabulary’s Rural, Wildlife and Heritage Crime Team, said: “This was a serious incident which led to devastating consequences in a close-knit, rural community. This was investigated fully, with evidence and support from local residents helping officers to build a strong case that ultimately led to the defendant pleading guilty.

“Our thoughts remain with the victim in the case and those affected by the incident, which we know was particularly distressing for all involved. 

“As well as engagement with local residents, these types of incidents have been discussed in Community Safety Partnership meetings with councillors around the area. Police and partners are working together to see how we can avoid similar incidents in future.

“The Government has acknowledged the severity of these incidents. Since this case a change in law has been implemented bringing in increased powers for police when dealing with offences where dogs have worried or attacked livestock.

“The incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact that irresponsible dog ownership can have on livestock and wildlife, residents and the dogs themselves.

“This is a clear warning of the consequences that owners could face if found guilty of these offences.”