Man charged over discovery of dead animals near shop

A man has been charged following the shocking discovery of dozens of dead animals outside Broughton Community Shop in Hampshire. On March 15, staff at the shop found the bodies of 50 hares, a barn owl, and a kestrel scattered in front of the store, prompting widespread concern and outrage after images of the scene went viral on social media. The incident has drawn attention from across the country, leading the shop to request CCTV footage to aid in the investigation. Hampshire Police launched an inquiry into the disturbing incident, which occurred in the small village of Broughton, home to just over 1,000 residents. On Wednesday, authorities announced that they had charged a suspect in connection with the case. James Kempster, 37, from Totton, faces multiple charges, including possessing live or dead wild birds and criminal damage. The police confirmed that Kempster has been charged with possessing both Schedule 1 and non-Schedule 1 wild birds or their parts, as well as criminal damage. He is scheduled to appear at Southampton Magistrates Court on September 10. A spokesperson for Hampshire Police stated that the investigation was conducted by the Country Watch Team in collaboration with the Criminal Investigation Department, leading to these significant charges. The incident has raised serious questions about wildlife protection and the treatment of animals, highlighting the need for community vigilance and the importance of reporting such acts to authorities.