A farmer from Canterbury has been permanently banned from owning livestock after severely neglecting his flock of sheep.
70-year-old Gary Edward Evans collapsed upon arriving at the Christchurch District Court for his sentencing. He was assisted by security and brought into the courtroom in a wheelchair, where he broke down in tears.
Evans faced nine animal welfare charges, including failing to provide treatment for his 184 sheep, resulting in unnecessary pain and distress for the animals.
Judge Stephen O’Driscoll stated that Evans lived on a 23ha farm in Rangiora where he kept the flock. The neglect spanned over a year, during which the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and inspectors tried to intervene multiple times.
Inspectors found sheep suffering from various conditions, including foot-rot, necrotic tissue, maggot infestation, arthritis, and flystrike. Many animals needed to be euthanized due to the lack of veterinary treatment.
Despite engaging a veterinarian for assessment, Evans failed to take immediate action to relieve the suffering of the sheep. He ignored notices to euthanize the animals, leading to further suffering.
During the court hearing, the MPI lawyer suggested a starting point of 18 to 24 months’ imprisonment. However, Evans’ lawyer argued that the gravity of the offense did not warrant imprisonment and proposed a fine instead.
After considering all factors, including Evans’ mental health issues and remorse, the judge imposed a fine of $30,000 plus costs and banned Evans from owning or managing livestock for life.
– By Al Williams, Open Justice reporter
