Crime reduction 

Animal crime prevention

How to report animal crime

• Call 999 in an emergency. It is an emergency when: a crime is being committed, there is a risk of injury, or there is a risk of serious damage to property.
• If a crime has already happened or you want to give information to the police, call 101. This is the 24-hour Thames Valley Police non-emergency number.
• If you do not want to speak to police or give your name, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

View other ways to report a crime.

Important points to remember

The vast majority of animal crime offenders are not local. They often travel some distance to commit their crimes in rural areas.

Pay attention to people who you’re unfamiliar with or suspicious of. Make a note of their appearance and the details of any vehicles that they are using. If you can, note registration numbers, any damage to the vehicle or other distinctive features.

Travelling criminals sometimes use hire cars. If possible, make a note of any hire company details. All of this information can be a great help to police if there is an incident in your area.

Don’t judge a book by its cover. Although criminals sometimes appear scruffy, they are often smart and well-dressed.