Magpie murderer slapped with massive penalty
A Victorian man has copped a $2,349 penalty after inflicting “callous” acts on magpies.
His sentence comes after an investigation by Victorian authorities who were tipped off that birds were being shot at a property in the state’s Sunraysia region. After inspecting the property in 2021, investigators discovered four dead magpies as well as two so severely injured they had to be euthanised.
The 57-year-old was placed on a good behaviour bond after appearing at the Mildura Magistrates Court. He admitted to 10 offences of wounding and inflicting aggravated cruelty on the native birds.
While Victoria does allow wildlife to be killed by property owners, they must apply for a permit before they start shooting.
After the sentence was handed down, the state’s Conservation Regulator Glen Smith warned offenders would be prosecuted.
“Magpies are an iconic native bird and they are protected in Victoria. There is no excuse for unlawfully killing or injuring them," he said.
“The Conservation Regulator takes wildlife crime extremely seriously and this court result should act as a warning that we will pursue penalties for offenders.”
These “callous” acts on the native birds come soon after another Australian man was found guilty of shooting and killing a staggering 350 kookaburras.
Anyone with information about wildlife crime can report it anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Image credit: Shutterstock