Post by LawrenceCoBowhunter on Mar 22, 2007 7:21:42 GMT -5
Judge reduces sentences for bear hunt protesters
NEWTON, N.J.(AP) _ Four animal-rights activists who were convicted of interfering with New Jersey's 2005 bear hunt won't have to spend as much time in jail or on fines.
A judge on Tuesday affirmed their convictions, but merged some offenses to lessen fines and penalties. The judge said defendants can't be punished twice for what's essentially the same violations.
Angela Metler, who is director of the New Jersey Animal Rights Alliance, had a 40-day sentence reduced to two days in jail and eight days in the Sheriff's Labor Assistance Program.
Hunters in Wawayanda State Park in Vernon had complained that the activists were taunting and following them during the 2005 hunt.
The activists plan to appeal the ruling.
___
Information from: The Star-Ledger, www.nj.com/starledger
NEWTON, N.J.(AP) _ Four animal-rights activists who were convicted of interfering with New Jersey's 2005 bear hunt won't have to spend as much time in jail or on fines.
A judge on Tuesday affirmed their convictions, but merged some offenses to lessen fines and penalties. The judge said defendants can't be punished twice for what's essentially the same violations.
Angela Metler, who is director of the New Jersey Animal Rights Alliance, had a 40-day sentence reduced to two days in jail and eight days in the Sheriff's Labor Assistance Program.
Hunters in Wawayanda State Park in Vernon had complained that the activists were taunting and following them during the 2005 hunt.
The activists plan to appeal the ruling.
___
Information from: The Star-Ledger, www.nj.com/starledger
