2 weeks Ago
Wiltshire's Police and Crime Commissioner has called for tougher sentences for hare coursing. Philip Wilkinson has joined those who believe the current penalties for the crime are not severe enough. This comes after two men were fined £300 each for hare coursing in Wiltshire earlier this month.
They were also ordered to pay a £120 victim surcharge and £85 in costs. Read more: Swindon Kaspa's Desserts improve food hygiene rating At present, the maximum sentence for hare coursing is an unlimited fine and six months in prison. Mr Wilkinson said: "Wiltshire Police has adopted a whole force approach when dealing with rural crime, and this has begun to produce significant results in terms of arrests.
"Along with Operation Ragwort, a joint initiative which tackles rural crime with our neighbouring forces, this approach has been met with a positive response from our residents." He added: "We know that rural crime is linked to organised crime groups, and by disrupting their illegal leisure activities, we can put a dent in their operations." His comments come as the Sentencing Council's consultation on the matter ends on April 25.
A recent BBC report highlighted the dangers of hare coursing, showing a video of a Wiltshire couple being attacked by hare coursers. Their car was rammed and ball bearings were fired through their windows. In the same report, another farmer expressed genuine fear that someone could be killed.
The National Farmers Union has asked its members to complete their own consultation by April 4, to make representations to the Sentencing Council. Mr Wilkinson is urging rural communities in Wiltshire to ensure their voices are heard. Read more: Arkell's pub in Swindon granted permission for housing He said: "The physical and psychological harm caused to farmers by hare coursers is considerable.
"Hare coursers have no qualms about the damage they cause, whether it’s physical, emotional or financial. "This is why I believe the sentencing of these crimes must match the robust nature of our policing and take fully into account the effect it has on its victims. "By taking a firm stance against hare coursers, it sends a strong message that we are united in our efforts to protect our rural communities.
" The Sentencing Council consultation can be found online..
