SIGNS reminding rural residents to report suspicious activity to police following incidents of illegal sheep butchery have been distributed to farmers and landowners.
It is the latest initiative of Operation Stock, Northamptonshire Police’s investigation into reports of lambs and sheep found killed and illegally butchered across the county last month – including 14 in Crick.
PCSO Les Conopo, dedicated PCSO for Crick and Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT), is one of the officers helping to distribute the signs to the farming community.
He said: “The idea behind the signs is to raise awareness of the issue, encourage the reporting of suspicious activity, and to show potential offenders that both residents and police are keeping a close eye on what is happening in our rural communities.
“The signs have been really well received, and we’re grateful for the continued information our communities are providing as we work to bring those responsible for these crimes to justice.”
The signs were funded by the Office of the Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Stephen Mold, who said: “I met with the National Farmers’ Union and heard very clearly just how much concern these horrible crimes are causing to the local community.
“I am happy to support initiatives from our local policing teams who are not only working hard to disrupt and deter the criminals involved but also working with partners to try to ensure that our rural residents have their concerns taken seriously and feel safe.”
Officers from the force’s Neighbourhood Policing Teams, Rural Crime Team, CID and forensic investigation teams are working on Operation Stock, with dedicated rural patrols and community reassurance continuing as well.
A 40-year-old Hampshire man arrested on July 24 on suspicion of criminal damage and theft as part of the investigation remains released under investigation.
The gruesome remains of 14 butchered sheep were discovered by two young children who live on Park End Farm near Crick last 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 urged to call police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.
