Overview
- Cumbria Police confirmed a seventh arrest in the Ambleside investigation, with all seven suspects questioned on suspicion of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal and now bailed pending further inquiries.
- One suspect was also arrested on suspicion of possessing an unlawful firearm, and officers previously seized three vehicles connected to the inquiry.
- The British Hound Sports Association has suspended Coniston Foxhounds as a precaution while the Hound Sports Regulatory Authority examines the case, noting the footage has not been independently verified.
- Detectives say the incident is believed to have occurred during a meet on November 8 near Ambleside, with the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit assisting the ongoing investigation.
- Foxhunting with hounds is illegal under the Hunting Act 2004, trail hunting remains lawful, and the case has intensified scrutiny of the practice as animal-welfare groups publish new reports and ministers prepare a consultation on a possible ban.