Tackling Rural Crime

Priority:
To proactively reduce and prevent rural crime across Somerton and surrounding communities through targeted enforcement, community engagement, and partnership working.

Statement:
Somerton Neighbourhood Policing Team is committed to protecting our rural communities from the impact of crime. We recognise the unique challenges faced by those living and working in rural areas, including theft of agricultural machinery, livestock offences, wildlife crime, and heritage crime. These offences not only cause financial loss but also undermine community confidence and safety.

Our approach will focus on:

• Visible Policing: Increasing patrols in rural hotspots and engaging with local residents and landowners to build trust and gather intelligence.
• Partnerships: Working closely with local councils, farming groups, and national bodies such as the NFU and Crimestoppers to share information and coordinate responses.
• Prevention and Education: Promoting crime prevention advice, encouraging reporting, and supporting initiatives such as Farm Watch and Horse Watch.
• Targeted Enforcement: Using intelligence-led operations to disrupt criminal networks and bring offenders to justice.

We will continue to listen to our communities and adapt our strategies to ensure Somerton remains a safe and resilient place to live and work.

Actions

• 23 October 2025
  

  Somerton Neighbourhood Policing Team have been investigation reports of agricultural equipment theft in and around the Somerton, Langport and Martock areas.