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Schoolboys Given Community Order for Animal Cruelty at Environmental College

partial view of blurred judge holding gavel

Two schoolboys aged 11 and 12 have been handed a community order after pleading guilty to charges stemming from their destructive actions at Capel Manor College in West London. The incident, which occurred in February, resulted in the deaths of more than 20 animals, including rabbits, snakes, and birds, and caused approximately £10,000 worth of damage.

The boys, whose identities have been protected due to their age, admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to the animals and were ordered to pay £200 each in compensation. Additionally, they were instructed to reimburse their parents for any financial penalties imposed, emphasizing that the responsibility lies solely with them for their actions.

Their destructive spree included stealing various animals from the college premises, such as ferrets, guinea pigs, and three snakes, which they were found playing with by police in a changing room. Moreover, the boys also pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage at Gunnersbury Park’s Putt in the Park mini golf course.

During the sentencing, District Judge Emma Green condemned their actions as “horrific,” expressing relief that their age spared them from a custodial sentence. Nevertheless, she stressed the severity of their offenses, highlighting the significant harm caused to the animals and the institution. Prosecutor Vijay Khuttan described the CCTV footage of the incident as displaying “extreme animal cruelty,” detailing how the boys were seen mistreating the animals, leading to their deaths and extensive damage to cages.

Despite being described as “of good character,” the boys’ actions were deemed a “significant jump into criminality” by Mr. Khuttan, illustrating the severity of their behavior.

Capel Manor College, known as “London’s environmental college,” provides opportunities for individuals to engage with animals and nature through various programs. The incident has undoubtedly tarnished its reputation, but Principal Peter Brammall expressed gratitude to the staff who worked tirelessly to address the aftermath of the intrusion.

In their defense, lawyers for the boys cited their young age and lack of maturity as contributing factors to their behavior. Despite this, the court emphasized the need for accountability and restitution for the harm caused.