I am writing in response to the article entitled "Bid to stop attacks on badgers" (The Argus, February 17). Animal protection officers say they have unearthed fresh evidence of badger baiting in Sussex.

Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is unlawful to be in possession of a badger or any part of a badger.

Under the Protection of Badgers Act 1991, it became an offence to tamper with or dig in a badger set. Before sentencing, courts should call for a psychological assessment of abusers to identify the best treatment to prevent re-offending.

When the imposed penalty is a fine and confiscation of equipment, there is little to prevent offenders buying more dogs and tools to continue their illegal acts.

To abate these serious offences, there needs to be a wildlife police team assigned to protecting Britain's most protected mammal because, at present, most baiters taken before the courts are identified in the first instance by undercover animal protection groups.

On a topical note, there is justification for outlawing the glorification of illegal acts which, at the moment, are legally described in hunting magazines and books specialising in terrier work.

Among these articles are adverts for books on badger digging, dog fighting and even cock fighting.

-David Hammond, Hassocks