Pair accused of animal cruelty

TWO Fivemiletown men have been charged with causing suffering to animals and failing to look after their welfare.

Leslie Hall (70) and Calvin Hall (31), both with an address at Cooneen Road, Fivemiletown, face a number of charges relating the welfare of cattle, including 14 counts of causing unnecessary suffering to the animals.

They are also charged with three counts of failing to take reasonable steps to ensure the welfare of the animals, by not providing the cattle with a dry lying area, and three counts of failing to hold animal carcasses in accordance with regulations.

The list of charges relate to dates between October 2020 and January 2021.

The pair are expected to contest the charges.

The case had been due to appear at Enniskillen Magistrates Court last week for an update.

However, the court was told there were some outstanding matters in the case.

Barrister Ciaran Roddy said bodyworn footage from DAERA officials had only just been disclosed and time would be needed to examine it.

Mr Roddy said this footage, as well as a veterinary report, could provide more insight as to the what suffering the animals may have experienced.

Vacating the planned contest on March 13, District Judge Alana McSorley adjourned the case until March 27 for a review.