Two Men Caught Red-Handed with Dead Hare and Catapult in Wiltshire
Police swooped on two men in a black Honda CR-V near Ogbourne St Andrew after reports of suspicious activity on farmland at 3.45pm on 9 February.
Hare Coursing Suspects Nabbed with Dead Hare and Gear
The officers stopped the vehicle and found five dogs, a catapult, ball bearings, and a dead hare inside. Both men, aged 25 from Cirencester and 19 from Reading, were arrested on suspicion of hare coursing and criminal damage.
In addition, they were slapped with Fixed Penalty Notices for breaking lockdown rules by being out without a valid reason.
Wiltshire Police Crackdown on Rural Crime
“Our message is clear, if we suspect anyone of hare coursing in Wiltshire, we will act swiftly,” said PC Marc Jackson.
“We are ramping up efforts against hare coursing. Our rural crime team is working closely with local policing to respond fast and keep the countryside safe.”
“Big thanks to the public for their sharp eyes and quick calls. It helps us catch these criminals in the act.”
Operation Galileo in Full Force
Wiltshire Police are fully committed to Operation Galileo, the national scheme empowering forces with civil and criminal powers to stop hare coursers and protect vulnerable victims.
Got Info? Wiltshire Police Want to Hear from You
If you spot suspicious rural activity, call Wiltshire Police on 101 or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
