ANY person capable of repeatedly shooting a swan at point-blank range, Guardian, March 2 edition, should worry those in the local community.

People who pick on the defenceless - whether a swan, a child, or any other vulnerable being - are dangerous and need to be stopped before they cause further harm or even kill again.

Research into psychology and criminology informs us that individuals who commit acts of cruelty to animals often go on to hurt humans if they aren’t apprehended.

For this reason, it’s crucial that whoever is responsible be caught and that our legal system ensure that convicted perpetrators receive the maximum sentence, including prison time, counselling, and a lifetime ban on keeping animals.

Otherwise, we endanger the lives of animals and humans alike.

Jennifer White PETA UK