Dorset Police targets poachers with extra patrols

Poachers, particularly hare coursers, have become a targeted priority for Dorset Police Rural Crime Team. 

Officers are strongly relying on the help of intelligence provided by local residents, including farmers. 

The police spokesperson said: “With increased reports of poaching and suspicious circumstances in Sixpenney Handley, we are upping our patrols in the area.  

“Thank you to local residents for your vigilance. Your reports enable us to effectively target an area, or any individuals that seek to offend there by utilising all of the tools available to us.  

“Without your information, we don’t know about it. If you are aware of any rural criminal activity happening in your area, and would like to see an increased police presence, please contact us via the correct channels.” 

Impact on rural communities

Between August 2023 and February 2024, 92 poaching incidents were reported to Dorset Police, including suspicious vehicles and suspicious circumstances, as well as criminal damage caused by poachers. 

Poaching has had a significant impact on Dorset’s rural communities, with many residents reporting damage to livestock, crops, hedges, and fences in previous years.  

Damage of this nature can cost farmers and landowners thousands of pounds and have a profound effect on food production within the county. 

Operation Galileo

At the beginning of the year, Dorset Police took part in a multi-force operation aimed at targeting poachers. 

Sergeant Natalie Skinner said: “We support Op Galileo each year and, while we didn’t catch any poachers on this occasion, we were able to engage with our rural communities and gather valuable intelligence which will be used to prevent rural crime and assist us in upcoming operations. 

“As a team, we also stopped 20 vehicles and issued two drivers with tickets – one for driving without insurance and another for driving with a dangerous load. 

“Although no poachers were identified during the operation, our high visibility patrols would have sent a clear message to offenders who put rural communities and livestock at risk. 

“Dorset Police has seen a 20% reduction in the number of reported poaching offences this year, and I believe that success is largely down to the efforts of our dedicated team. Partnership working, as well as the range of tactics we’ve used to target known offenders and to prevent poaching. 

“These figures are proof that what we’re doing is working, and we’re committed to continuing to reduce rural crime in Dorset.” 

Anyone with information about poaching is being asked to contact Dorset Police.

If you are witnessing a crime in progress, call 999. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111. 

Read more rural crime news.