Aspiring paramedic avoids conviction for shooting six neighbour's goats
Harry Egan, 19, got an 18-month adjourned undertaking and $2500 fine. He shot six goats that damaged his family's Enfield property.
Harry Egan was studying nursing and paramedicine. On December 23, 2025, he shot dead six goats that had strayed onto his family's property near Ballarat.
The neighbor's animals had repeatedly damaged the property. Egan told the owner they had been warned.
On September 15, magistrate Guillaume Bailin sentenced Egan. Bailin said Egan was extremely lucky he had not faced more serious charges.
Egan was a field and game club member. He was described as a bit of a marksman.
He received an 18-month adjourned undertaking without conviction. He must pay a $2500 fine.
Bailin favored Egan's recovery over a heavier penalty.
- Six goats
- Animals shot
- December 23, 2025
- Shooting date
- 19 years old, studying paramedicine
- Egan's age and study
Why it mattersEgan avoided a criminal conviction despite admitting to aggravated animal cruelty. His case shows how courts consider past behavior and rehabilitation chances when sentencing.
AustraliaThe case highlights how property disputes over uncontrolled livestock play out in Victoria's courts and the range of outcomes available to magistrates even in guilty pleas.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 9 d ago
