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An SPCA inspector under investigation for alleged cruelty to animals says the "spurious" accusations are part of a smear campaign to discredit him before a major court case.
High-profile inspector Jim Boyd is known as a national "troubleshooter" who has successfully prosecuted 200 cases.
He once spent five years cracking a dog-fighting ring and was last year awarded the SPCA gold star for outstanding contribution to animal welfare.
But the Ministry of Agriculture and Fishing has hired private investigators to question alleged breaches of the Animal Welfare Act, including accusations he shot the muzzle off a horse and let it run around a paddock for 20 minutes, and unnecessary euthanasia of animals.
A MAF spokeswoman confirmed private investigators Corporate Risk had filed a report last month, but said the investigation was continuing and it was inappropriate to comment further.
The Herald on Sunday has learned the complaints were laid by dog breeder David Balfour. He and his wife Daryl have been committed to stand trial on animal cruelty charges in the largest case of its kind.
Boyd was the SPCA officer who charged Balfour, who was allegedly found with more than 200 cats and dogs on his Dannevirke property last year.
He said the "spurious" allegations were to discredit him before the court case with Balfour. "I don't believe I will be found wanting in any of the areas complained of."
SPCA chief executive Robyn Kippenberger said the allegations against Boyd had to be investigated independently to avoid jeopardising the case against Balfour.
"We have to be open and transparent about this and make sure the proper steps are taken," she said.
She stood by Boyd and described the complaint as a "smear campaign" against one of her most active inspectors.
Boyd resigned from the Bay of Islands SPCA committee in March but is still employed as the Northern Region manager.
Attempts to contact Balfour were unsuccessful.
