A pensioner, Gerry Duffy, 76, has admitted to killing his neighbor's koi carp by pouring motor oil and detergent into the pond, citing persistent noise from a pond pump as the reason for his actions. The incident occurred on Hadley Road in Barnet, England.

Duffy confessed to sloshing the pond with motor oil on March 20, 2026, and four days later, he was captured on CCTV damaging the water pipes and electric pump before adding detergent to the water. This ultimately led to the death of approximately five to six koi carp. Duffy stated he acted out of "sheer frustration and lack of sleep."

According to reports, Duffy had been engaged in a dispute with his neighbor, Andreas Ptohides, over the noise generated by the electric pump. Duffy, who suffers from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and other health issues, claimed the noise made it impossible to sleep, especially when he was bedridden with a chest infection. He described sleepless nights spent walking in circles and attempting to sleep on his "good ear" with windows taped shut.

Duffy stated that discussions with his neighbor about the pump's noise were initially met with promises to address the issue, but Ptohides later refused, claiming it was "not good for the fish." Duffy recounted confronting his neighbor in the early hours of the morning, becoming angry when no action was taken. He claimed his neighbor suggested he "buy some earplugs."

In addition to damaging the pond, Duffy also admitted to snapping the electric supply to the pumps with pliers and cutting pipes to stop the pump from running. However, he noted that the pump was operating again. He expressed concern that his actions had backfired, as he claims the pond is now louder than before.

At Willesden Magistrates' Court on August 4, Duffy pleaded guilty to three counts of damaging property and one count of unlawfully destroying fish. His health conditions, including COPD, type 1 diabetes, skin cancer, high blood pressure, severe anxiety, and depression, were presented as mitigating factors. His defense also noted the impact of a recent break-up.

Duffy was ordered to pay £565 in compensation, including £440 for the pond and associated equipment, and £125 for the destruction of the fish. He received a two-year conditional discharge order.

Duffy expressed worry about his reputation within his community and with his family, particularly his grandchildren. His son has suggested he move away, but Duffy is reluctant to leave his grandchildren and his allotment.