Police launch poaching crackdown amid animal mutilation fears at beauty spot

Police have launched evening patrols at a beauty spot to crackdown on poachers amid fears that game have been mutilated.

By Gavin Ledwith

Published 8th Jan 2020, 17:35 BST

Updated 8th Jan 2020, 21:53 BST

Police have launched evening patrols in Castle Eden Dene to deter poachers.

There are also reports in Castle Eden Dene of suspects using dogs to threaten deer.

A Peterlee Police spokesman said: “We are working closely with our partners at Natural England, who are custodians of the Dene, in order to prevent further instances of this nature.

“We have also issued a number of poaching letters to those suspected of being involved in these activities.

“These persons risk seizure and forfeiture of any equipment, vehicles or animals used in the commission of poaching and the poaching letters act as a notice of intent to pursue those who continue to act in this cruel and illegal manner.”

Public reports of such activity can be made through the 101 non-emergency number or directly to 6638 Goodwin via [email protected]