Woman sentenced after dogs killed 35 sheep

A woman has been given a community order after her dogs killed 35 sheep and injured 14 others.

Linda Lawrence's two German Shepherd-cross breeds escaped from her garden after they were believed to have chewed through a fence in Assington Green, near Haverhill in Suffolk.

The 66-year-old had already pleaded guilty at Ipswich Crown Court to one count of criminal damage and one count of owning a dog dangerously out of control.

She was handed an 18-month community order, which included a requirement to undertake 200 hours of unpaid work.

She was also banned from owning dogs until further notice and told to pay more than £2,300 in costs and compensation.

Lawrence's defence barrister said the dogs escaped from the garden after chewing through a fence on 18 July.

In a victim impact statement read to the court, sheep owner Tom Biela said their deaths were "devastating".

"These sheep are so important to me," he said.

Prosecutor Harry Piercy said it cost more than £600 to clear up the dead animals and there were veterinary bills to care for the injured sheep.

Originally, £14,000 had been sought for compensation, but the eventual agreed figure was £1,224. She was also ordered to pay £1,000 in court costs and a £114 victim surcharge.

The court heard that Biela would pursue a civil claim for compensation from Lawrence.

Judge Elroy Claxton said the attacks could have been avoided if Lawrence "took proper precautions".

He said she had been warned by police and given "extremely clear" instructions on managing the dogs after one of them previously attacked a sheep.

Lawrence's defence barrister, Nathan Toms, said she previously worked for "British intelligence", was "remorseful" over the incident and had been "ostracised" by the community.

He said she had "learnt her lesson" regarding the dangers posed by large dog breeds.

The court was also told the two dogs had been euthanised.

Sgt Chris Green from Suffolk Police said: "The incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact that irresponsible dog ownership can have.

"This was a serious incident which led to devastating consequences in a close-knit rural community."

A revised law around sheep worrying came into force in March, which means dog owners could face unlimited fines if they are convicted.

The police were given new powers if they suspect a dog has attacked livestock. They can apply for a warrant to seize the animal and can take teeth impressions and DNA samples.

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