Farmers welcome tougher new penalties to tackle hare coursing
Date of alert:
Monday, 1 August 2022
Crime Ref:
Force:
Norfolk Constabulary
Norfolk farmers have welcomed the introduction of tougher new penalties to clamp down on hare coursing - a crime which "blights rural communities".
The illegal blood sport brings intimidating criminal gangs into fields to bet on dogs chasing wild hares.
Not only does it involve cruelty to wild animals, but it is also associated with other criminal activities including theft, criminal damage, violence and intimidation.
The new measures which came into force on August 1 means anyone caught hare coursing will now face an unlimited fine and the possibility of up to six months in prison.
Two new criminal offences have also been introduced - trespass with the intention of using a dog to search for or pursue a hare, and being equipped to trespass with the intention of using a dog to search for or pursue a hare.
