Dogs Seized In Billingshurst As Police Target Livestock Worrying

Sussex Police’s Rural Crime Team carried out a joint warrant at Kingfisher Farm in West Chiltington Lane, Billingshurst, as part of an investigation into livestock worrying.

The operation, which took place on Wednesday 22 April, involved officers from the Tactical Enforcement Unit, Specialist Enforcement Unit, Divisional Intelligence Unit and Neighbourhood Policing Team.

They were also joined by partners including the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit, the local council, the RSPCA and Samaritans.

The warrant followed reports of livestock worrying in the Billingshurst area.

Two dogs – a terrier and a German Shepherd – were seized from the premises.

A Pomeranian was also photographed and DNA swabbed as part of ongoing enquiries.

The seized dogs have been taken to kennels while investigations continue and are expected to be rehomed after a seven-day period.

Sergeant Thomas Carter from the Rural Crime Team said livestock worrying can have a “devastating impact” on farmers and their animals.

He said it can lead to serious injury or death of livestock, and in some cases cause animals to escape onto roads, posing further danger.

Police are reminding the public that livestock worrying is a criminal offence, even if no animals are injured.

Officers say they will continue to investigate reports and take action against those responsible.

Under current legislation, farmers are allowed to kill a dog if it is actively worrying livestock and there is no other reasonable way to stop it.

Dog owners are being urged to keep pets on a lead and under control around livestock.

Anyone witnessing a dog worrying animals should call 999, while non-emergency incidents can be reported online or via 101.

Caroline Harriott, Regional Board Chair for the National Farmers’ Union in the East of England, said the organisation continues to support police efforts to tackle the issue.

She said recent changes to the law, which came into force in March, give police greater powers to detain dogs and allow courts to issue unlimited fines to owners.

Ms Harriott added that livestock worrying remains a major issue for farmers across Sussex, causing injury, distress and financial loss, and thanked the majority of the public for acting responsibly in the countryside.