Police crack down on deer poaching in Teignbridge

Devon & Cornwall Police have stepped up patrols in rural areas of Teignbridge following an increase in reports of suspected deer poaching. Officers are responding to sightings of individuals seen with hunting rifles and coursing dogs, particularly in locations known to be inhabited by deer.

Local neighbourhood officer PC George Miller said the force is taking a zero-tolerance approach to the illegal activity.

“There have been sightings from farmers and members of the public of individuals with hunting guns and dogs in areas where we know deer are located. This illegal activity will not be tolerated.”

To tackle the issue, officers will be deploying specialist equipment such as thermal imaging cameras and drones to cover large areas quickly and discreetly. The force will also be conducting stop searches and seizing firearms, animals, vehicles, and hunting gear from those suspected of being involved.

PC Miller explained the wider consequences of deer poaching: “Not only does poaching harm our deer populations through unethical and often inhumane methods, but it can also pose a serious public safety risk. Many poachers use unlicensed firearms, and venison from poached deer can be unsafe for consumption if sold without proper inspection. This is why we are determined to disrupt these criminal acts and safeguard both wildlife and the public.”

Police are urging anyone who sees suspicious activity to report it immediately by calling 999 if the crime is in progress. Non-urgent information can be submitted via 101, the Devon & Cornwall Police website, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

“No matter how small the detail might seem, what you share could be key in stopping this illegal activity,” added PC Miller. “Together we can keep our wildlife and community safe.”

Poaching is governed by several historic pieces of legislation still in effect today:

• Game Act 1831 (Section 30): Makes it an offence to trespass in pursuit of game during the day (from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset). Even sending a dog from a public path constitutes trespass under this law.

• Night Poaching Act 1828: Makes it illegal to take or destroy game or rabbits at night (from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise), including from public roads and verges. Those caught can be arrested on the spot.

Devon & Cornwall Police are one of many UK forces committed to tackling wildlife crime, including poaching, illegal trapping, and habitat destruction.

For more information about wildlife crime and how to report it, visit: https://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/wc/wildlife-crime/
To report anonymously, visit: www.crimestoppers-uk.org