The charges included failing to ensure his 184 sheep received treatment that alleviated unnecessary pain or distress. In March 2024, MPI received the first of multiple complaints regarding the health of the sheep. They found sheep suffering from advanced foot-rot, necrotic tissue and maggot infestation. Photo: Ministry for Primary IndustriesOver the following months, inspectors found dozens more sheep suffering from lameness and flystrike. Judge O’Driscoll said Evans’ offending was aggravated by the causing of significant pain or distress to the animals, and his sole responsibility for the flock.