Farmer pleads guilty to sheep deaths charge

A Canterbury farmer has pleaded guilty to a charge under the Animal Welfare Act following the deaths of 13 sheep this winter.

The RSPCA laid a charge against Myles Forsey for failing to ensure that the physical health and behavioural needs of his animals were met in accordance with good animal practice.

Forsey pleaded guilty to the charge at a status hearing at the Christchurch District Court and will be sentenced on November 2.

RSPCA lawyer Richard Raymond said the offending took place between May and June this year and resulted in seven sheep being found dead and a further six having to be destroyed.

- NEWSTALK ZB