Crackdown on Crime: Seven Arrests and 16 Vehicles Seized
It’s been a hectic month for the local crime squad. They made seven arrests, seized 16 vehicles, handed out six penalty notices to motorists, and launched investigations into 22 wildlife crime offences. A major focus was fighting fly-tipping along the Sevenoaks and Bromley border, working closely with Sevenoaks District Council, the Environment Agency, and the Metropolitan Police.
Fly-Tippers Targeted: Vehicles Seized and Warning Letters Issued
On 20 January 2022, suspected fly-tippers received warning letters, and one vehicle was seized as part of the crackdown. Then, on 26 January, the team made the first arrest for breaching a Community Protection Notice (CPN) linked to fly-tipping.
Operation Galileo Hits Hare Coursers Hard
The action was part of Operation Galileo, the national campaign against hare coursing. Officers detained a 32-year-old man in Iwade after responding to reports of suspected hare coursing. He was found to be breaching a previous CPN and was arrested, with a court date pending.
High-Speed Chase Ends with Dangerous Driver Arrested
On 27 January, a daring pursuit ended with a man being caught and arrested in Hollingbourne. Police tried to stop his vehicle in Harrietsham, but it sped off, narrowly avoiding a collision near Hollingbourne Hill. The driver fled on foot but was quickly detained.
He now faces charges for failing to stop, dangerous driving, and driving without a licence.
Warning to Dog Owners Ahead of Lambing Season
“It was a busy month for the team with many reports of hare coursing and poaching,” said Sergeant Darren Walshaw. “We secured the first Community Protection Notice arrest under Operation Galileo and continue to work with seven police forces across the region to target repeat offenders.”
“As lambing season approaches, there’s been a rise in livestock attacks. I urge all dog owners to keep their pets on leads near livestock. Officers now carry DNA testing kits to identify dogs involved in attacks. Owners risk losing their pets if they let them chase or injure farm animals.”
