THE League Against Cruel Sports has dropped its private prosecution of four men accused of hunting offences, almost two years after they were arrested.
Despite the decision to drop the case, the league’s private prosecution could mean taxpayers are landed with a massive legal bill totalling tens of thousands of pounds, according to the Countryside Alliance.
Huntsman Stuart Trousdale, falconer Jamie Butcher, former Isle of Wight Hunt master Malcolm Purcell and hunt member Liam Thom were arrested in early-morning raids on May 3, 2007.
The Crown Prosecution Service dropped its prosecution later that month but in June, 2007, the League started a private prosecution, accusing the men of illegal hunting, which the four denied.
In a statement, the league said: “After careful consideration, the league’s legal experts have advised that, although evidence had originally been of sufficient quality and quantity, this was no longer the case following a recent high court judgment.
“The ruling introduced a new criteria in presenting evidence, which did not exist when this particular case was brought.”
League chairman and barrister John Cooper said the decision would not mean an end to prosecutions under the act.
Mr Purcell said: “This has been hanging over us for almost two years, which takes its toll.
“I was always confident we had hunted within the law and the CPS dropped the case like a hot potato. Unfortunately, it seems this is going to end up costing taxpayers.”
A hearing was due to be held today (Thursday) at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court, when the case was due to be formally discontinued and the issue of costs determined.
Reporter: ross.findon@iwcp.co.uk