Criminal Damage In Countryside Doubles During Pandemic

Criminal damage in rural parts of Leicestershire has doubled during the pandemic.

In the year to March this year, Police received 121 reports of damage to farms, farmhouses, stables and fields compared to 61 in the previous 12 months.

There has been damage to gates, fences and hedges – and dog attacks on livestock increased from 11 to 18.

The rise is being linked to more people visiting rural areas to meet friends, walk their dogs or exercise and there is a plea today for people to respect the countryside and the people who work within it.

Harriet Ranson, County Adviser for the National Farmers Union in Leicestershire, Northamptonshire & Rutland, spoke to Hfm:

Inspector Siobhan Gorman from Leicestershire Police said: “”We want people to enjoy the beautiful rural areas of Leicestershire and Rutland, but we are asking people to please respect the rules of the countryside – after all, that is how farmers make their living.

“If you are walking your dog in the countryside and are unfamiliar with the area, always keep your dog on the lead as there could be sheep and cattle nearby that you aren’t aware of.

“Sheep worrying is an offence and you could be liable for prosecution and heavy financial penalties if your dog is involved in an incident of this type.

“Always plan your route, stick to footpaths and please abide by any signs or rules, don’t remove them, or deface them, as they are there for a reason and please don’t remove or damage fencing.

“Farmers work hard to maintain their boundaries to ensure their animals remain enclosed and safe.”