A ‘sickening’ video which shows a boy punching a pigeon to death was filmed in North Yorkshire, police confirmed today (Saturday).
Several people rang the force control room to complain about the online footage, which shows the teenager killing the bird.
Police said the incident is believed to have happened at around 8pm on Friday (16 June). They received the first call about it just before 10pm.
Today (Saturday), North Yorkshire Police said they could confirm that it occurred in Barlby near Selby and the suspect has been identified.
A Wildlife Crime Officer is investigating along with the RSPCA.
They aim to prosecute the teenager for an offence under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981.
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “This is clearly a very sickening incident which is being taken extremely seriously by the police and the RSPCA.
“Animal cruelty is abhorrent and concerned residents in Barlby, and the wider community, can be assured that we will do everything in our power to bring those responsible to justice.”
They added that any other individuals found to be connected to the incident will also be investigated and may also face prosecution.
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