Shenandoah Valley Rabbit Casserole

1 rabbit, cut into 6 serving pieces
Salt & pepper to taste
1/2 tsp thyme
3 bay leaves
5 slices bacon
1 c chicken broth
1 c seasoned bread crumbs

Brown rabbit pieces on all sides in olive oil.  Place in casserole dish, add spices and cover with bacon slices.
Pour chicken broth over casserole. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for  2 hours or until tender. Remove cover and sprinkle with  bread crumbs. Bake another 30 minutes until browned and serve.