The mayor of Tønder Municipality, Jørgen Popp Petersen, a farmer, is discontinuing his pig production after being reported to the police eight times for legal violations. The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has conducted 14 inspections of his pig farm since 2019 due to his repeated disregard for the agency’s most severe sanction: a police report.

Signe Hvidt-Nielsen, veterinary chief at the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, described the situation as “an unusual case, and it is an unusual process.”

The mayor, representing the Schleswig Party, operates a farm with over 600 sows and 3,500 piglets, which have reportedly suffered from severe neglect.

Evidence includes recordings of a pig with gangrene in both ears. However, access to the control reports and related materials is restricted from public view as they are under police investigation by the Police of Southern and Southern Jutland.

While Signe Hvidt-Nielsen could not comment on specifics, she noted the rarity of eight police reports arising from 14 visits. Data from the Administration indicates that police reports against pig producers have resulted in punishment in slightly over half of the cases in recent years.

Ultimately, the courts will determine if the violations warrant a deprivation of the right to keep animals. The prosecution is currently deliberating whether to pursue charges.