Cancer expert behind animal testing attacks is jailed

Joseph Harris and the damage he caused to three companies that had links to an animal testing firm
13 April 2012

A cancer research specialist who waged a sabotage campaign against companies linked to an animal testing laboratory was jailed for three years today.

Joseph Harris, 26, a doctor of molecular biology, is the first person to be convicted under new legislation designed to tackle harassment and threats from animal rights activists.

Harris, Northampton Crown Court heard today, was put in "an increasing moral dilemma" as his work was leading him to carry out tests on animals as he researched a treatment for pancreatic cancer.

He attacked three companies that were contracted to the controversial Cambridgeshire firm in December 2005 and January this year.

Harris, of Bursledon, Hampshire, pleaded guilty to three counts under the Serious and Organised Crime act, which was brought in by the Government last July.

Jailing Harris today, Judge Ian Alexander said: "I am sorry that your conviction and the sentence I impose will seriously damage what was a very promising career.

"It may well be that your future inability to continue your research into gastro-intestinal cancer will be a great loss to those who suffer that disease.

"The seriousness and objective of your offences must be marked both as a punishment and deterrent to others." The judge added: "It causes me great discomfort in seeing you before the court having thrown so much away."

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