Melfort Provincial Court (File photo/northeastNOW Staff).

By Aaron Schulze

Cattle in Distress

Local farmer found guilty of causing unnecessary pain and suffering to cattle

Jun 19, 2019 | 3:12 PM

A Porcupine Plain farmer was found guilty of two counts related to causing distress to his cattle.

Judge Inez Cardinal convicted Alex Potoreyko of wilfully causing unnecessary pain and suffering to his cattle under the Criminal Code, and for not taking reasonable measures to relieve the animals of distress under Saskatchewan’s Animal Protection Act.

The verdict comes after Animal Protection Services of Saskatchewan recommended charges against Potereyko to the RCMP in 2017 after they received complaints of him not trimming his cattle’s hooves.

“We agree with her decision that Mr. Potoreyko did not adequately care for his cattle,” Crown prosecutor Jennifer Souter said outside of court. “The matter is still before the court, so I will reserve any comment until after the sentencing has concluded.”

Cardinal didn’t give her full decision – which included the sentencing – in Melfort Provincial Court on June 19, as Potoreyko was absent due to health issues. He had a representative in court to hear the verdict.

Crime

Trial dates set for Muskoday murder case

14h ago

achievement

Bell claims Song of the Year at international awards show

14h ago

Election education

Sask. schools elect NDP majority government

17h ago

Souter said a partial decision isn’t uncommon.

“The verdict was delivered, but the decisions and reasoning will be provided at a later date,” she said. “Unfortunately, health concerns occasionally arise, and we deal with them as best we can.”

The sentencing was adjourned to June 25 in Melfort. Potoreyko still faces four more charges before the court.

Souter said the Crown will decide how it intends to proceed with the other charges after sentencing occurs.

Cardinal said in court she hopes Potoreyko – who is defending himself in the trial – can work with the Crown going forward.

–

aaron.schulze@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @SchulzePANow