Find local news in Kent

Home   Sittingbourne   News   Article

Three boys aged 12, 13 and 14 arrested after animals killed at Westlands school farm, Sittingbourne

11:19, 02 January 2018

updated: 11:25, 02 January 2018

Police have arrested three boys after animals were allegedly killed at a school farm following a series of break-ins.

Chickens were found dead at Westlands secondary school in Westlands Avenue, Sittingbourne, last Thursday.

They were allegedly stamped on and kicked around the grounds.

Head Simon Cox with Farm Manager Oliver Howland and Farm Technician Sue Hodkinson with one of the remaining chickens at the Westlands School Farm
Head Simon Cox with Farm Manager Oliver Howland and Farm Technician Sue Hodkinson with one of the remaining chickens at the Westlands School Farm

It is thought two pregnant cows, a pregnant pig and piglets were also let out of their pens. A pig is also thought to have been kicked and beaten with sticks.

A number of animals were also set free and taps were left running overnight.

Police have now arrested three boys aged 12, 13, and 14, all from Sittingbourne, on suspicion of criminal damage and animal cruelty.

Farm technician Sue Hodkinson and manager Oliver Howland with Theresa the pregnant pedigree Welsh pig who was injured in the incident
Farm technician Sue Hodkinson and manager Oliver Howland with Theresa the pregnant pedigree Welsh pig who was injured in the incident

They have since been released while the investigation continues.

Swale Academies Trust principal Jon Whitcombe, who oversees the management of the Westlands Avenue school, earlier called the perpetrators “mindless hooligans”.

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More