Police forces in Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire have united to tackle the ongoing problem of hare coursing with the introduction of Operation Galileo. Over the past year, 276 hare coursing related reports were lodged in Lincolnshire only, leading to 33 arrests, as well as the seizure of 15 dogs and 14 vehicles. Sergeant Thomas Smith, who belongs to the rural crime action team of the Lincolnshire Police, has reiterated their dedication to preserving local communities, wildlife protection and ensuring that culprits face the consequences.
Hare coursing, an unlawful practice that involves using dogs in pursuit of hares, often results in substantial damage to crops and agricultural land when trespassers engage in this activity on private land. The launch of this joint initiative took place at Grantham’s Belvoir Castle, focusing on protecting rural communities from the distress and intimidation brought on by such individuals.
Sergeant Smith underscored the financial and emotional distress hare coursing inflicts on farmers. He pointed to the thousands of pounds-worth of damage, the intimidation and potential violence that landowners are frequently subjected to. Operation Galileo utilises a range of resources, including visible and concealed vehicles, motorbikes and drones, all aimed at detecting and discouraging hare coursers. From 2022, police officers have been authorised to arrest those engaging in hare coursing and are equipped to seize vehicles and dogs, alongside imposing driving bans on perpetrators.
This article was adapted from original reporting by The Lincoln Post from bbc.com.
