New survey aims to reveal views around dog theft in Sussex
There's been a sharp rise in reported incidents over the last year
A new survey has been launched in Sussex to understand the public's perception of dog theft.
It's part of a national review of how rules should be enforced and the punishment given to thieves.
The Home Secretary, Priti Patel, has suggested that potentially tougher penalties could be on the cards for those who commit these types of crimes, following a rise in incidents during the coronavirus lockdown.
The responses to this survey will help inform the discussions that Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) will have on the issue nationally and allow police forces to better understand the public’s views on this crime and how they might improve their response to those concerns.
Demand for dogs as pets has increased during the coronavirus pandemic. The cost of some puppies, on Pets4Homes, is currently as high as £3,000, making them a valuable commodity to criminals.
According to Dog Lost, the UK's largest lost and found dog service, it is estimated thefts have risen by 250 per cent, with criminal gangs involved.
Katy Bourne, Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner, said that a conversation on the issue was important with public perception and fear growing to an all-time high:
“I am incredibly eager to get more detail around this issue and understand residents’ views and if they feel more could be done to respond to their concerns or for more preventative measures to be put in place to better protect their pets.
“I’m pleased to see the Home Secretary recognising the devastating impact of this crime and I hope that the results of this survey will give the Government the evidence it needs to take more robust action against perpetrators.”
Sussex Police recorded 31 dog thefts in 2020 but at least 12 of those were disputes over dog ownership between known parties.
Inspector Andrea Leahy from the Sussex Police Rural Crime Team said:
“We support this national survey and the team are working tirelessly to collate information and intelligence on this worrying crime.
"We have dedicated officers covering the county who review every report that comes into us.
"We would like to encourage the public to report all suspicious circumstances and read our crime prevention advice on our website.
"We are dedicated to keeping your pets safe and target any persons believed to be involved in this distressing crime.”
The 60-second survey will be open until 5pm on March 12th and can be accessed here.