Wiltshire Unveils New Rural Crime Squad to Battle Countryside Crooks
Wiltshire police have launched a tough new rural crime team to crack down on crooks targeting the countryside. The revamped squad aims to make Wiltshire and Swindon no-go zones for criminals preying on isolated communities.
Fresh Funding Fuels Crime Crackdown
The team kicks off today (18 September), made possible by a boost in police funding secured by Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson. Extra cash from council tax increases and central government will fund the fight against agricultural, environmental, wildlife, and heritage crime.
The unit will use intelligence-led operations to prevent crime and encourage locals to report suspicious activity, ramping up confidence in rural safety.
Team Set to Patrol Wiltshire’s Countryside
- One sergeant leading
- Three constables on duty
- 35 community policing officers, including specialist Wildlife and Heritage Crime Officers
- An Inspector acting as tactical lead
- Support from Special Constables on planned missions
The team will spread across the county, taking on rural criminals with focused, local knowledge and operations.
Commissioner and Chief Vow: Wiltshire’s Countryside Is Protected
“We live in a largely rural county, so policing must meet the unique challenges our communities face,” said Angus Macpherson. “With extra officers on board, we can run more targeted operations, gather crucial intelligence, and reassure locals we won’t tolerate rural crime.”
“Our Rural Crime Partnership keeps us connected to the communities and partners tackling these issues together.”
Chief Constable Kier Pritchard added: “Criminals are getting smarter and using tech to up their game. This dedicated rural team, backed by enhanced intelligence, will strengthen our prevention and detection efforts.”
“We want Wiltshire and Swindon to be counties criminals fear stepping foot in.”
Community Urged to Stay Vigilant
Wiltshire police urge residents to report all rural crimes, big or small. Dial 101 for non-emergencies, or 999 if a crime is happening now.
