Man accused of deliberately injuring sheep at Canberra property refused bail

An 18-year-old man has been refused bail after facing charges of animal cruelty and burglary in Canberra, Australia. The incident occurred on September 17 at a rural property near the Monaro Highway in Tuggeranong. Police allege that several individuals broke into the property the night before, used dogs to round up eight sheep, and herded them into a holding pen.

The alleged perpetrators then deliberately injured several sheep using firearms and edged weapons; one sheep died, and another had to be euthanized. The home on the property was also reportedly ransacked. Memphis Auld, the 18-year-old accused, was charged with four counts of aggravated animal cruelty causing death, one count of aggravated animal cruelty causing serious injury, aggravated burglary with intent to damage property, possession of a prohibited firearm, trafficking cannabis, and multiple motor vehicle and driving offenses.

Police seized cannabis and a large knife from Auld's possession, as well as multiple items from a raided home in Richardson. A 16-year-old was arrested but later released pending further investigation, and a 27-year-old man in custody for unrelated matters is expected to also face charges. The court heard concerns about the presence of an outstanding firearm and potential concealment of evidence by the accused group.

Magistrate Alexandra Burt denied Auld's bail application, citing the risk of reoffending, endangering others, and interfering with evidence. Auld was remanded in custody and is set to return to court later in the month. Police urge the public to provide information through the Crime Stoppers ACT website.