Court: Hobby Hunters Not Defamed by Being Called «Killers»
Wildlife photographer Alain Prêtre was acquitted of charges of defamation, slander, and insult.
In La Chaux-de-Fonds, the court found on 30 September 2021 no grounds to convict wildlife photographer Alain Prêtre of defamation, slander, or insult against Neuchâtel hobby hunters.
«Killers», «Assassins» and «Pests»
In three emails, the photographer referred to the hobby hunters as «killers», «assassins» and «pests with malicious power».
The court concluded that it could not convict him, because while he had addressed Neuchâtel hobby hunters in general, he had not targeted any individual hobby hunter in particular. The defendant described his statements as «well thought out» and «chosen deliberately».
Pierre Meinis, lawyer for the Neuchâtel Hobby Hunters’ Association, expressed surprise and disappointment on radio station RTN: «The Neuchâtel hobby hunters were clearly targeted. Every time the recreational hunting season opens, we are systematically blamed.»
Calling hobby hunters murderers is not the expression of a viewpoint or an opinion, but of reality. Yes, they kill and decimate wild animals, yes, they slaughter endangered species, yes, they gravely mutilate deer, foxes, stags, and other animals.
Alain Prêtre
Acquittal Emboldens Prêtre
«So-called recreational hunting is, as the name suggests, a pleasure — deadly for wild animals and sometimes for humans too. I leave it to psychiatry to describe the pathology associated with this perversion, hobby hunting”!»
His acquittal has strengthened Alain Prêtre’s resolve in his campaign against recreational hunters: «I will fight until my last breath, not only against the gravediggers of nature, but against all those who attack the integrity of biodiversity.»
This case was by no means a foregone conclusion, as recreational hunters wield considerable influence, which they do not hesitate to use in such situations. The hobby hunters naturally have the option to appeal the court's decision, but Alain Prêtre, who was represented by lawyer Marta Fiedorczuk-Hénin, is delighted with this fine victory.
