Farmer Olivier Berthe, 58, was acquitted on 25/11 by the Amiens Court after being prosecuted for noise complaints stemming from his early morning cow feeding routine. Berthe, who owns a farm in Lignieres-en-Vimeu, Somme province, northern France, faced legal action initiated by an elderly neighbor.

The neighbor filed a complaint last October, alleging that Berthe had begun feeding his cows at 6 AM for three consecutive days. Her complaint detailed significant disturbances, including loud tractor noise and conversations between Berthe and his sons, which she claimed disrupted her sleep.

Olivier Berthe. Photo: France Bleu.

The plaintiff, who originated from the Paris region and has resided in the village for 20 years, stated in her complaint, "The tractor noise was very loud and he talked very loudly with his sons. They didn't realize people were sleeping!", adding that she had observed the farm growing increasingly noisy with more animals and machinery over time. She also expressed frustration about not receiving prior notice regarding the early morning feeding.

The prosecution recommended a 78 euros fine for Berthe. However, Berthe and his lawyer argued that the accusation was unreasonable, pointing out that the complainant was the only person in the area to raise concerns about the noise. Berthe acknowledged that agricultural activities can cause some inconvenience but stated he made every effort to minimize disruption. He emphasized that farm schedules often require adjustments due to changing weather conditions.

"Prosecuting a farmer who gets up to work from 6 AM for three consecutive days is utterly unreasonable", the defense stated.

The court ultimately sided with Berthe, acquitting him of the charges. He was permitted to continue his normal agricultural operations and was not required to pay the 68 euros fine. Stepping out of the courthouse, Berthe exclaimed, "The countryside is not a silent paradise".

By Hai Thu (Source: France Bleu, Demotivateur)