Rural crime

Farmers are being urged to keep a close eye on stocks of diesel and fertiliser as rocketing prices fuel fears of a rural crime spree.

A dog shot by a farmer after it broke free from its lead and worried numerous sheep has sparked a police plea about responsible pet ownership. 

A Herefordshire farmer will face criminal charges for his role in river maintenance works following investigations and joint legal action from Natural England and the Environment Agency. 

GPS theft has become an alarming trend across UK farms in recent years. Hannah Binns and Toby Whatley investigate what is fuelling the crime and how farmers and contractors can protect their equipment.

The number of dog owners letting their pets roam free in the countryside has increased almost 10 per cent this year, from 64 per cent in 2021 to 73 per cent today. 

Supply shortages in new and second-hand quad bikes have fuelled a spike in thefts, with criminals more slick, determined and prolific than before.

Supply shortages in new and second-hand quad bikes have fuelled a spike in thefts, with criminals more ‘slick, determined and prolific’ than before. 

Two men have been convicted of the theft and dishonest handling of property from farms across Somerset following a police investigation. 

A new investment of £700,000 has been announced to help police forces in Lancashire tackle rural crime.

A number of items including car and digger parts, trailers, farm vehicles and quad bikes have been recovered following a raid on several addresses in the East Midlands.