Rabbit swinging accused denies cruelty

A man who allegedly swung a live rabbit at pedestrians in downtown Auckland has denied cruelty and ill-treatment of the animal.

Graham Paul Brown, 53, appeared in Auckland District Court today charged with animal cruelty, assaulting police and disorderly behaviour. He pleaded not guilty to the three charges in court today.

Police allege Brown held the rabbit by its ears and swung it at pedestrians as he abused them.

Police wrestled the rabbit from him, and a security guard held it as he was handcuffed.

His lawyer Lincoln Burns said Brown firmly maintained his pleas of not guilty to all three charges.

Judge David Harvey told Brown his behaviour did not seem very fair to the rabbit.

"Swinging a rabbit round by its feet and ears is not normal treatment for a rabbit. You should get real Mr Brown.

"Rabbits aren't used to being swung in the faces of pedestrians."

Mr Burns said the rabbit had been rehomed and his client denied his behaviour was disorderly.

Judge Harvey told Mr Burns he realised he was acting on instructions from Brown.

"All I can say is good luck. You'll both need it," he said.

Brown was remanded on bail and will reappear on July 16 for a defended hearing.

In February, Auckland SPCA inspector Vicki Border said the rabbit, which they had named Larry, appeared to have escaped injury but was stressed.

Ms Border believed the rabbit was somebody's pet.

- NZPA