The conviction followed a lengthy investigation into the brothers' farm practices. The court ruled that they deliberately and repeatedly violated animal welfare laws. One of the most shocking incidents was cutting off the wings of ducks that were then fed to predators.
This is not the first time the brothers have come into conflict with the law over animal cruelty. In previous cases, they were also accused of animal abuse, leading to convictions and fines. This time, the judge also imposed a ban preventing them from ever working with animals again.
The case has caused widespread outrage in Denmark. Animal welfare organizations have welcomed the conviction as an important signal that abuses in the livestock industry will not be tolerated. Recently, there has been broad political agreement in Denmark on expanding and tightening the Danish animal welfare law.
This case underscores the importance of stricter regulations and enforcement to combat abuses and protect animals from cruelty. The verdict against the Danish poultry farmers marks an important victory for animal rights activists and highlights growing concern over animal welfare in the agricultural sector.
The brothers have announced they will appeal the verdict. Their lawyers claim the sentences are too harsh and that there is insufficient evidence for the charges. Despite their protests, they have lost all rights to work with animals.
That the brothers from Viborg have been denied the right to ever have anything to do with animals is historic, but if an appeal is lodged, this has a suspensive effect. This means any consequences of the ruling will only take effect once the Supreme Court has issued its verdict, which may take a long time.