AN ARREST has been made by police investigating a spate of illegal sheep slaughters.
Northamptonshire Police arrested a 40-year-old Hampshire man on suspicion of criminal damage and theft as part of Operation Stock, which the force launched after receiving a number of reports of sheep being killed and illegally butchered across Northamptonshire.
Senior investigating officer Det Insp Johnny Campbell of Northampton CID said: “We’re taking this fast-moving investigation very seriously with a dedicated team following a number of lines of inquiry into these awful crimes.
“One man arrested in connection with these incidents has been released under investigation, with inquiries ongoing as our investigators and the Rural Crime Team work tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.
“We’re receiving lots of intelligence and I’d like to thank everyone who has reported suspicious activity to us. These reports are vital to our work and I’d urge anyone with potentially relevant information to contact us via 101 or online.”
Insp Tracy Moore, rural crime lead at Northamptonshire Police, added: “We’re aware of the impact these dreadful incidents have had on our farming community, and our dedicated Operation Stock police patrols continue around the clock.
“We’re also working with partners and the community to provide reassurance and advice, including the distribution of livestock warning signs.”
The gruesome remains of 14 butchered sheep were discovered by two young children who live on Park End Farm near Crick earlier this month – one of a string of recent illegal livestock slaughters.
Farmer Phil Neal said it was awful for his children to witness, and estimated the financial cost to be in the thousands.
Anyone who sees anything suspicious is asked to call police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.
