Disturbing Incidents of Animal Carcasses Left at Churches in New Forest

Benjamin Lewis, a resident of Totton, Southampton, has pleaded guilty to seven offenses related to the disturbing practice of leaving dead animals at various churches in the New Forest, Hampshire. The incidents occurred between February 5 and April 30, 2025, and involved the carcasses of deer and lambs being placed at sites including Christ Church in Colbury, St Peter’s in Bramshaw, St Theresa’s in Totton, and Christ Church in Emery Down. Lewis admitted to five counts of religiously aggravated intentional harassment, alarm, or distress, as well as two counts of theft of lambs. He is currently remanded in custody and is scheduled for sentencing in February 2026.

The Guardian

The New Forest district commander, Chief Inspector Scott Johnson, expressed concern over the distress these incidents have caused within the community. He noted that the police have been conducting both uniformed and plainclothes patrols in response to the widespread alarm. Johnson encouraged residents to engage with officers if they have any information or concerns regarding the incidents. The police previously reported that the discovery of the carcasses has been particularly upsetting for those who found them, contributing to a climate of fear in the area.

The Guardian

While Lewis's offenses are confined to this year, the practice of leaving animal carcasses at churches has been reported for several years, leading some locals to speculate about the involvement of satanic groups. In a related incident from 2024, a rotting deer’s head with an upside-down cross was discovered on a memorial stone in the New Forest, prompting outrage among residents. Chris White, a former police officer, recounted the shock of the community, particularly as children were present in the vicinity. He noted the historical connections of the area to witchcraft, referencing Sybil Leek, who was known as “Britain’s most famous witch” in the 1950s.

The Guardian

The police have emphasized their commitment to addressing these incidents and ensuring community safety. Chief Inspector Johnson stated, “These disturbing incidents have been upsetting for those who discovered them, and will be concerning for our wider community.” The authorities are actively investigating the matter and have urged the public to report any further occurrences or suspicious activities.

The Guardian

• “The New Forest district commander, Ch Insp Scott Johnson, said: “These disturbing incidents have been upsetting for those who discovered them, and will be concerning for our wider community.” — Chief Inspector Scott Johnson, New Forest District Commander

The Guardian

• “He said: “People are quite appalled because children were walking by, because it was a rotting head after all.” — Chris White, Former Police Officer

The Guardian

The case against Benjamin Lewis highlights a troubling trend of animal carcasses being left at churches in the New Forest, raising concerns about community safety and the potential for occult-related activities. As the community awaits sentencing, the police continue to investigate and reassure residents of their commitment to maintaining public order.

The Guardian