Rural Crime – Suspicious Activity
Rural Crime – Please Report Suspicious Activity
Rural crime continues to have a significant impact on our farming and countryside communities. Offences such as poaching, hare coursing, and the theft of farm equipment or livestock can cause major disruption, financial loss, and emotional distress.
A key challenge is that many incidents go unreported. Members of the public may assume a vehicle in a field belongs to a farmer or contractor, or that someone walking dogs across farmland is simply exercising them. In some cases, however, this behaviour may be linked to illegal hunting or poaching.
Why Reporting Matters
Every report helps us build a clearer picture of what is happening across our rural areas. Even small or seemingly harmless incidents may be crucial for identifying patterns, directing patrols, or supporting future policing operations.
Your reports directly help the rural crime team tackle:
- Hare coursing and deer poaching
- Theft of machinery, tools, diesel, and livestock
- Damage to crops, fences, and gates
- Suspicious vehicles or unknown individuals on farmland
What to Look Out For
Please report anything that seems unusual, such as:
- Vehicles driving slowly, parked in remote areas, or positioned overlooking fields
- People watching livestock, farm buildings, or fields without a clear reason
- Dogs being used to chase wildlife
- Unfamiliar individuals entering fields or woodland without permission
If in doubt — report it anyway. We would rather check and find nothing than miss essential information.
How to Report
- 999 – If a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger
- 101 – For non‑emergency reports or ongoing suspicious activity
- Online – www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report
You can also contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team via the Avon & Somerset Police website for non‑urgent concerns or advice on rural crime.