Prosecution for illegal fishing at Somerton
A man from Street has been prosecuted for illegally fishing at the Viaduct Fishery, Somerton, earlier this year.
Aaron Thurston, 35, from Street, appeared before Swindon Magistrates. He pleaded guilty to fishing without a rod licence. Also to giving false details when challenged by Environment Agency Water Bailiffs.
It became clear that Thurston had given incorrect information as the false name and address he provided just so happened to be those of someone the bailiffs knew.
He was ordered to pay a total penalty of £751 (£220 for each offence, £135 in costs and a £176 victim surcharge).
Richard Dearnley, Environment Agency Water Bailiff, said: “We are pleased with another successful prosecution for unlicensed fishing and hope the penalty received will deter others planning to fish illegally. The Environment
Agency and courts take these offences very seriously.”