River poacher was a "patsy" (From Tivyside Advertiser)

River poacher was a "patsy"

2:10pm Sunday 20th December 2009

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A man observed by water bailiffs as he retrieved an illegal gill net stretched across the River Teifi at Newcastle Emlyn was set up as a patsy by others, his solicitor told magistrates.

The poaching operation upriver of Adpar Bridge near the Ddol Wyber rugby ground in August led to 45-year-old David Andrew Burke, of Flat 4, Meadow Hill Farm, Cardigan, appearing at Cardigan Courthouse when he admitted three poaching-related offences.

Environment Agency prosecutor Martin Rees said two water bailiffs spotted the gill net, including floats and a head rope on August 27.

The following morning police officers on mobile patrol saw Burke being dropped off from a car on the A475 Newcastle Emlyn to Llandyfriog road and he made his way towards the river.

Bailiffs watched as he retrieved the net, which did not contain any fish, and carried it away from the river.

Police followed the car to Lloyd’s Terrace in Adpar where Burke was dropped off carrying a blue bag. He was then arrested.

Defence solicitor Aled Owen said Burke was approached in a local pub and told he would be compensated for the poaching venture.

"He was taking all the risks and was in effect made a patsy by others who masterminded the operation," he said.

"He had no reward and now feels anger towards those responsible. He was made to dangle on the end of a string and was chosen because of his vulnerability. He was set up in a callous way," he said.

Burke was given a conditional discharge for 18 months and ordered to pay £500 towards costs.

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