THE North-East has an unenviable reputation for animal cruelty. The recent case where four teenagers tortured a rabbit is the only the latest in a long line to hit the headlines over the last few years (Echo, Oct 7).

Magistrates at Newton Aycliffe, in not imposing custodial sentences on the culprits, have failed to recognise the seriousness of the offence.

They have also missed an opportunity to deter the offenders and others from carrying out similar abhorrent practices in the future.

Statistics show that young offenders who are capable of this type of behaviour tend towards acts of violence to animals and humans as they progress through adulthood.

I accept that the offenders are young people, and that they may well be subject to harsh criticism from elements within the local community, but I feel that a short period of custody was the appropriate response in this instance.

John Crick, Bishop Auckland