Three men convicted of hare coursing in landmark Hertfordshire case
Hunsdon Airfield incident leads to first successful prosecution in the county
Three men have been convicted in Hertfordshire for being equipped to search or pursue hares with dogs, marking a landmark prosecution following an incident at Hunsdon Airfield.
The convictions are believed to be the first successful prosecution for hare coursing in the county.
The incident took place on 22nd November 2025, when police received reports that a silver Nissan Qashqai was being used for hare coursing at the airfield.
Officers were quickly dispatched and located the three men, who were detained after claiming permission to be there, which was found not to be true.
The men wore attire suitable for traversing muddy fields, and a search of their vehicle revealed two lurcher dogs hidden in the boot.
Both the vehicle and dogs were seized, and the men were arrested and charged.
Johnny Delaney and Michael Delaney appeared at Stevenage Magistrates' Court for sentencing after an earlier trial in July.
Johnny Delaney, aged 44 from Fanshawe Road, Cambridge, received a Community Order until March 2028 and a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order and was fined along with victim surcharges and court costs.
His CBO prohibits entry to Hunsdon Airfield, trespassing in Hertfordshire with lurcher-type dogs, and associating with others with such dogs.
Michael Delaney, 65 from Wharf Road, Wormley, was fined, with victim surcharges and court costs upon his sentencing in August.
Robert Ruff, 42 from Folkstone Road, Dover, is wanted by police for failing to appear for sentencing despite his conviction.
Sergeant David Miller said hare coursing causes distress and that the force continues efforts to prevent similar crimes.
Superintendent Chris Hay emphasized the impact of hare coursing on rural communities, reassuring that actions will continue to protect these areas.