Investigation after cat killed by hunting hounds

POLICE say they have completed their investigation after a cat was mauled to death by a pack of hunting hounds.

In March, WMN sister website CornwallLive reported how Mini, a 14-year-old rescue cat, was savagely killed by a pack of hunting hounds on a housing estate in Madron, near Penzance.

The incident was caught on video, with a huntsman then allegedly seen picking up Mini’s body and throwing it over a fence.

Mini’s devastated owner, Carly Jones, told of her “heartbreak” following the distressing incident. She said it was “no accident” and condemned the “evil” huntsman for his actions.

Following Mini’s death, Carly has launched a petition called Mini’s Law, aiming to protect the public and animals from hunting activities. The petition calls for a ban on any activity involving hunting hounds, such as trail hunts and hound exercise, taking place in a residential area or in any other public place.

The petition has already received more than 12,000 signatures on the Government website.

The Western Hunt, the group responsible for the hunting hounds involved, released a statement about the incident as public pressure mounted, including widespread criticism of it being on the housing estate at all.

It said incidents of this nature were “incredibly rare”, that it was taking the matter “very seriously” and helping police with their enquiries.

It also said it had been in contact with Mini’s owner and “apologised unreservedly”.

Police say they have now “progressed all lines of enquiry” and have submitted a file for review so a decision can be made about any possible charges.

Inspector Rebecca Le Cheminant, from Devon and Cornwall Police, said: “Police have been conducting a thorough investigation, including interview of potential witnesses and persons who were present at the scene.

“A specialist trained wildlife liaison officer has diligently progressed all possible lines of enquiry, sought evidence and spoken to members of the public.

“Police would like to thank everyone who has come forward to assist our enquiries, which has included liaising with the RSPCA and a specialist pathologist from Bristol.

“Police have submitted a file for review by our local criminal justice unit. The office in charge of the investigation is keeping the owner of the pet fully updated in full compliance with the Victim’s Code.

“It is a difficult time for all parties concerned and the response of the local community has greatly assisted.”

‘Police have submitted a file for review by our local criminal justice unit’ INSPECTOR REBECCA LE CHEMINANT