'Rural crime happens multiple times a day in Kent it's out of control' says farmer
James Smith owns Loddington farm in Maidstone and he believes he has spent over ten thousand pounds on locks, cameras and other security measures,
A farmer from Kent has told us that rural crime happens 'multiple times a day' with it currently feeling 'out of control'
It's comes with parliament holding a debate on the issue later today (Thursday 27th February) - it will be opened by MP Ben Maguire.
James Smith owns Loddington farm in Maidstone and he believes he has spent over ten thousand pounds on locks, cameras and other security measures, he said: "There is something going on everyday, multiple times a day, certainly around the Maidstone area.
"Thefts, poaching, anti-social behaviour, the level of rural crime at the moment, from our perspective, feels out of control, it means everything has to be bolted down, locked up and kept away.
"This results in rising insurance premiums but there is also just the knowledge that you will likely encounter someone on your farm, that you'd rather not encounter, and there isn't a lot you can do about it."
Rural crime includes; theft of farm equipment, livestock theft, wildlife offences (including hare coursing), fly tipping and county lines.
Last year, NFU Mutual's report estimated that the cost of rural crime increased by 4.3% year-on-year in 2023, to £52.8m.