Suffolk is one of the safest counties in the country. However, we cannot afford to be complacent and it is essential that we continue to work together to combat crime in all its forms.
Over the past few weeks, we have seen an increase in hare coursing incidents across the county and have stepped up our response accordingly, using a range of different tactics to catch and convict offenders.
We want to raise awareness of this crime to the whole community, while reminding everyone to remain vigilant and report all suspicious activities.
To help us catch the culprits, it is important that incidents are reported to us immediately so that officers can get to the scene as soon as possible.
You can help us further by being aware of the following guidelines:
• Call 101 to report any suspicious activities or movement of vehicles. No one knows the countryside better than residents of rural communities. You are in the best place to notice unfamiliar people, vehicles and suspicious activities. Information such as the make and direction of travel of vehicles can be extremely valuable.
• If people are actively hare coursing on your land, immediately dial 999 and ask for the police. Ideally take note of vehicle registration numbers.
• Under no circumstances approach the offenders or confront them.
• Observe the activities from a safe distance, even a neighbouring field, rather than engaging directly with suspected coursers.
• Keep the Constabulary informed of further movement and direction, if the suspects have moved on.
Help us keep our communities safe by reporting any suspicious activity
Please use the following link to pass useful information to Suffolk Police about any incident. http://www.suffolk.police.uk/safetyadvice/reportacrime/tellthepolice.aspx
DO NOT USE THIS LINK IN AN EMERGENCY OR IN A SITUATION THAT REQUIRES AN IMMEDIATE POLICE RESPONSE WHEN YOU SHOULD RING 999.