‘Far harsher punishments needed to stop pet thieves’
CALLS FOR MORE POLICE POWERS
A VOLUNTEER for a charity that helps reunite owners with their stolen or lost dogs is calling for far harsher punishments for pet thieves.
Animal thefts have been hitting the headlines this year, following a spate of eight dog-napping cases during a two-week period in February, coupled with social media fears of thieves marking properties using cable ties and pavement paint.
In the weeks leading up to February 26, 13 dogs were also reported stolen.
After the spate, police stepped up patrols and issued advice to pet owners, and reports of dog thefts have since declined.
Following the police action, there were only two reports of dog thefts between February 26 and March 11. Both dogs in these instances were found and returned to their owners.
A Leicestershire Police spokesman said: “While this latest information shows there has been a decrease in reports, officers continue to carry out inquiries into the recent reports and continue to monitor how the crimes are affecting the force area as a whole.”
But Wendy Gray, a volunteer for dog charity Harvey’s Army, which helps find missing pets, lost or stolen, says far “harsher punishments” are needed.
She told the Mercury: “Far harsher punishments need to be in place and followed through with the police having more power.
“Dogs are not the same as other stolen goods. They are not a toaster, wallet, TV et cetera. Dogs are family and it rips people apart when they are stolen.”
Leicestershire Police Assistant Chief Constable Julia Debenham said: “We know these incidents are extremely distressing for owners and raise high concern among other dog owners.
“Many of us in force are dog owners ourselves and we therefore know the important part that pets play in your family.
“Our recent work around these crimes has shown a decrease in reports but our teams do still continue to carry out their work and inquiries around these crimes.”
Volunteer Wendy added: “These thefts are just horrendous and need to be stamped out now.
“It is getting worse and people are worried about stepping outside with their dogs for fear of attack or them being snatched away.
“Dogs are being taken from gardens, cars and outside shops. I can’t explain just how abhorrent these acts are.”
Assistant Chief Constable Debenham is asking the public to remain vigilant and continue to protect “yourselves and your pet as much as you can”. She said: “We ask that you continue to report any incidents to us as well as anyone you see acting in an unusual manner.
“Please also inform us of any adverts you see regarding dogs for sale where information is limited.
“We will continue to investigate reports and to act on information received to ensure that dogs are safely reunited with their owners and continue to work to find those responsible for these
Dogs are family and it rips people apart when they are stolen
Wendy Gray
crimes.”
You can report to the police online here or by calling 101. Information can also be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.