Appeal Rejected: Man to Serve Full Sentence for Dragging Kangaroo
A judge has rejected an appeal by Michael Anthony Holmes, 61, who sought to reduce his 15-month jail sentence for dragging a live kangaroo behind his car in the NSW Southern Tablelands. Holmes has been incarcerated since last month after pleading guilty to aggravated animal cruelty.
Details of the Incident
In early April last year, Holmes discovered an injured kangaroo on his property in Bywong that could not stand. Approximately nine hours later, he fastened a nylon rope around the still-conscious kangaroo's neck, attached it to his car, and dragged the animal about 400 meters to an embankment outside his property. He then detached the rope and left the kangaroo with the rope still around its neck.
A woman later discovered the injured animal alive but struggling and contacted a wildlife rescue service. The kangaroo was taken to Possumwood Wildlife Sanctuary in Bungendore, where it subsequently died.
The sanctuary reported the incident to the police.
Police reported that Holmes stated he had "relocated" the animal to prevent it from dying on his property and described kangaroos as "complete vermin" and "jumping rats." A pre-sentence report indicated Holmes did not show remorse for his offense.
The Appeal and Judicial Decision
Holmes's lawyer, Jason Moffett, argued that his client's conduct was "disgraceful" but contended that Holmes had good prospects of rehabilitation and could serve an intensive corrections order in the community. Mr. Moffett also presented new evidence regarding Holmes's ongoing medical monitoring.
NSW District Court Judge Jane Culver dismissed the appeal. Judge Culver stated there was no evidence that Holmes's medical monitoring could not continue while he was incarcerated. She further noted Holmes's lack of remorse, stating, "The wanton cruelty in this case does not suggest that an intensive corrections order would be appropriate."
Judge Culver emphasized the need to send a "strong message" to Holmes and the community.
Holmes will be eligible for parole in October of this year.