News
Update:
A man from Tuatapere, Andy Pender, has come forward as the individual responsible for poisoning over 200 pine trees on council property in a Southland town. When asked for comment, Pender admitted, “I am the guilty party.” The police had announced the previous day that a 54-year-old resident from Tuatapere had been charged with criminal damage in relation to the deliberate poisoning of the trees in a public reserve. Pender confirmed that he was the man charged and stated that he intends to plead guilty when he appears in the Invercargill District Court on February 28th.A 54-year-old Tuatapere resident has been charged with Criminal Damage, relating to the deliberate poisoning of more than 200 trees in a public reserve.The trees were planted to initially beautify the area.
Long-term it was intended any proceeds from their eventual harvesting would be used to benefit the community.
The investigation was progressed with the assistance of members of the Tuatapere public, who provided information which led to a search warrant being executed and property relating to the poisoning being discovered.
The offender was subsequently interviewed and made full admissions to the offending, Otautau Sergeant Chris Maguire said.
The man is due to appear in Invercargill District Court on Tuesday, 28 February 2023.