100+ people attend north Hampshire rural crime meeting
Police say they're determined to make life 'uncomfortable' for offenders
Last updated 19th Jan 2024
More than 100 people from the rural community have attended a meeting to discuss rural matters in the Basingstoke, Winchester and Hart districts last week.
The local community were given a platform to voice their concerns and discuss ongoing issues in the area during the event at the Candover Valley Club in Brown Candover.
A number of matters were discussed at the meeting, including the recent rise we have seen in trespass and poaching offences.
Basingstoke Rural Police Sergeant Martyn Evans said:
“More than 100 people were in attendance and so many people were willing to speak so passionately about rural issues they are facing. This gives me huge confidence in just how supportive the local community are.
“Our officers take rural crime very seriously, as the impacts on the livelihoods of those affected can be devastating.
“But I want to stress that we are committed to solving the issues that you face and our teams are in this for the long term.
“We will be demonstrating flexibility within the team to meet the needs of the community, meaning duty time changes so that we are in the right place at the right time in the hope of stopping these offences, which I know are taking a great toll on everyone.
“The use of technology is also at the forefront of how we will be taking on these criminals. With the use of drones, thermal cameras and other items at our disposal, our officers have the tools to relentlessly pursue rural criminals, and I anticipate positive outcomes will follow.”
Another meeting is now being planned.