The appellant was convicted of 22 offences of unlawfully importing or dealing with animals and birds of endangered species. The appellant was concerned in importing 23 birds of prey in two suit cases. A search of his premises resulted in the discovery of various other birds and animals, including a gibbon, a golden eagle, and various other birds of prey. Sentenced to a total of six and a half years' imprisonment.

The sentencing judge imposed sentence on the basis that the appellant was well aware that his activities were against the law and that they were committed for profit. Some of the birds had been treated with cruelty and one of the rare birds (gibbon) was from an extremely rare breed. The Court agreed with the judge's observation that the sentence should send a clear message to others minded to commit similar offences.

Judgment:
The Court had come to the conclusion that some modest reduction could be made in the sentence; the total sentence would be reduced to five-and-a-half years' imprisonment.