Belfast Woman Faces Assault Charges After Allegedly Attacking Good Samaritans Who Tried to Free Captured Baby Seagull

A Belfast woman is facing assault charges after she allegedly attacked good Samaritans who attempted to free a baby seagull she had captured. Angela Wildman, 58, appeared in court to deny charges of common assault, possessing an offensive weapon in public, disorderly behavior, and resisting a police officer.

Angela Wildman, a Belfast woman known for her love of wildlife, is facing assault charges after she allegedly attacked good Samaritans who attempted to free a baby seagull she had captured. Wildman's defense attorney, Damien Trainor, stated in court that his client denies being diagnosed with any mental health conditions and explained that she feeds and cares for birds.

According to officers' testimony in court, individuals who attempted to liberate the seagull from Wildman were assaulted with a long-handled mop and a large carton of milk. One unlucky passerby was allegedly struck with both objects during the incident.

Belfast Woman Faces Assault Charges After Allegedly Attacking Good Samaritans Who Tried to Free Captured Baby Seagull

When officers responded to the scene in south Belfast, Wildman reportedly became aggressive and uncooperative as they attempted to handcuff her. The arresting officer argued against Wildman's application for bail, questioning her obsession with capturing wildlife and suggesting that she had gained public attention by capturing the baby seagull.

Wildman was granted bail after spending six weeks in custody ahead of her court date. Her defense lawyer, Damien Trainor, did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

Belfast Woman Faces Assault Charges After Allegedly Attacking Good Samaritans Who Tried to Free Captured Baby Seagull

The incident has sparked outrage and concern among animal rights activists. The Royal Society for the Protection of Animals (RSPCA) has stated that it is illegal to keep wild birds as pets in the UK. The RSPCA advises anyone who finds an injured or distressed wild bird to contact a local wildlife rescue organization.

Experts emphasize the importance of leaving wild animals in their natural habitats and respecting their freedom. Wild birds require specific diets and specialized care, and keeping them in captivity can be detrimental to their health and well-being.

Belfast Woman Faces Assault Charges After Allegedly Attacking Good Samaritans Who Tried to Free Captured Baby Seagull

The baby seagull in question was eventually released back into the wild. Animal welfare organizations recommend that people who encounter injured or distressed wildlife contact reputable rescue organizations for assistance.