Convicted farmer escorted from courtroom

Donald McKenzie Harcourt appeared for sentence in Greymouth District Court yesterday on animal welfare charges, dating back to 2012, relating to his Crooked River farm.

A West Coast farmer convicted over starving cattle had to be escorted from court after directing his anger at the Ministry for Primary Industries officer who investigated the case.

Donald McKenzie Harcourt appeared for sentence in Greymouth District Court yesterday on animal welfare charges, dating back to 2012, relating to his Crooked River farm.

He was convicted on three separate counts of failing to meet the health needs of 72 calves, of having 77 emaciated cows, and for failing to comply with the requirements of an inspector under the Animal Welfare Act.

After being stood down for sentencing, Harcourt glared at the principal (Ministry for Primary Industries) MPI inspector, still in the courtroom, and said, "read the internet" before being escorted from the courtroom.

In his finding, Judge David Saunders noted compelling evidence that Harcourt was "antagonistic" to MPI when it investigated animal welfare on his farm, between August and October 2012.

The MPI investigation followed a complaint about the state of starving calves on the farm.

The judge said that under the Animal Welfare Act the onus was on Harcourt to prove he did "all" that he was ordered to do by the MPI -- noting that much of his defence had been to deflect blame on to the ministry and others.

However, Harcourt had failed to follow a notice issued to him to take "all reasonable steps" to follow the steps ordered by the MPI.

These included to de-stock, seek veterinarian advice and treat animals, and to follow advice to feed his cows 16kg of dry matter per cow per day.

"The defendant was obliged to prove he had taken all reasonable steps," the judge said.

The judge also commented on the "collateral issue" of Harcourt's milk supply contract being cancelled by Westland Milk Products, in mid-October 2012.

"It is evident that Mr Harcourt believes that the suspension of his contract with Westland Milk Products was solely down to the MPI," Judge Saunders said.

However, the judge did not accept that. He would release a full written finding in due course.

Judge Saunders adjourned the hearing until October 12 to ascertain MPI investigation and court costs, and to weigh up what fine Harcourt would have to pay.