Date: 18 January 2010
Three year sentence following attack on farm
Lewis Pogson, 23, of Little Bornes, Dulwich, London has today been sentenced to three years imprisonment, having been found guilty of a number of serious criminal offences including blackmail, burglary and criminal damage.
The sentence follows an investigation into an incident at a farm near Normanby-by-Spital in Lincolnshire which took place on 6th January 2008.
A group of people, including Lewis Pogson, raided the premises and stole 129 rabbits worth over £10,000. They also damaged the premises and a number of vehicles. The overall cost of the damage was estimated at £70,000. Threats were also left at the farm in the form of graffiti on the walls.
Detective Sergeant Mark Blackburn of Lincolnshire Police said: "The police service recognises the right to peaceful and democratic protest by those who oppose the use of animals in research.
"It is important to remember that the vast majority of animal rights campaigners in the UK only ever act peacefully. Since these offences were committed there have been a number of peaceful demonstrations at the farm. Lincolnshire Police continue to work hard to ensure that people can exercise their democratic rights and protest lawfully despite the unlawful activities of a few.
"However, today's sentence should send a clear message. It is completely unacceptable for any individual or group to commit criminal offences, intending to bully and intimidate others going about their lawful business, into compliance with the agenda of that individual or group.
"Such activity has no place within a peaceful campaign and those tempted to such action must understand that the Lincolnshire Police will not tolerate it."
