Defending the Red Squirrel

Apart from not liking how the grey squirrel is treated in this article but understanding the decline of the red Squirrel I am confused over this article about the powers or non powers of the RSCPA.
I always thought the RSCPA in this country had no power of arrest like they do in the States and therefore the Police always made the arrests, however the RSPCA do have the powers to lead an investigation into what is deemed cruelty cases, so was this man just having a whinge because he admitted something and then got caught out?

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/comment/columnists/christopherbooker/7958103/Arrested-for-defending-the-red-squirrel.html

littlewid-x-

Thats sounds interesting LW, I will read it when I have more time dont want to rush an answer
WS

I dont think they have powers of arrest but can get the police to come along and arrest anyone they have evidence of cruelty to animals.

We all know the threat grey squirrels pose to red squirrels but I think that if they are caught and killed in a humane way then its fine. The guy in the article admitted to drowning a grey squirrel whcih isnt very humane

This is a such a hard one. Grey squirrels are vermin and have to be kept under control. I am sad it was drowned as a more humane way is possible.

Thoughts on the RSPCA - to be honest fairly useless. We've reported neglect of horses and cows before now and ................ they did nothing.

Lai

I would be interested to hear if anyone has any good to say about the RSPCA because most people seem to only have negative things to say about them. I know if you phone them about anything in our area they direct you to W.A.D.A.R.S (Worthing Animal District Rescue Services), they do a fantastic job but I am sure they are put upon by the RSPCA.
littlewid-x-