Police have charged two men in connection with the killing of a sheep on the South Downs, following an investigation into a distressing incident near Ditchling Beacon.
Officers were called on Monday, 6 November 2023, after a report that a sheep had been attacked on the evening of Thursday, 2 November.
A swift investigation led to the arrest of two suspects. They have now been charged with causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.
Leighton Ashby, 31, of Beckett Road in Ashford, Kent, and Oakley Hollands, 20, of Mussenden Lane in Horton Kirby, Kent, are due to appear at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 7 August.
Superintendent Rachel Swinney of Sussex Police said:
“This report was treated with the seriousness it deserved, and a thorough investigation was carried out.
We have also engaged with the owner of the sheep, local farmers and the wider community to provide reassurance and advice.
I would urge the public not to speculate on the details of this incident while the court process is ongoing.”
The incident has caused concern among rural communities, and police are continuing to liaise with farmers and residents across the South Downs to provide updates and support.
Add your first comment to this post