Target: Philip Wilkinson, Police and Crime Commissioner of Wiltshire and Swindon, UK
Goal: Hold hare coursing gangs accountable for their violent and illegal activities threatening wildlife and farmers.
Hare coursing in the Vale of Pewsey has reached a crisis point, where criminal gangs are terrorizing the countryside, disrupting the peace, and putting lives at risk. These gangs unleash dogs, typically greyhounds or lurchers, on innocent hares, often livestreaming the brutal chases for gambling purposes. This violent pursuit is not only inhumane to the hares but also poses a serious danger to local farmers, some of whom have sustained injuries or suffered property damage as they confront these lawbreakers. The statistics tell a harrowing tale: hare coursing and poaching offenses have surged by over 20% in Wiltshire in just one year, with individuals traveling from across the UK to partake in these horrors.
Reports indicate that local farmers have resorted to extreme measures to defend their land as hare coursers smash through fences and gates, creating a relentless cycle of fear and vigilance. One farmer described their land being used for hare coursing ten times in a single month, leading to nighttime drives to secure property and manage constant threats. Allegations of animal cruelty are rampant, as dogs are often abandoned, neglected, or left injured after these illegal activities. It is a grim reality where individuals are not only gambling their fortunes on these gruesome spectacles but are also involved in international criminal networks.
The urgent need for decisive action against hare coursing cannot be overstated. This activity undermines rural safety and risks the wellbeing of both wildlife and local residents. Strong enforcement measures and appropriate punishments for those involved in these heinous acts are essential to restore safety and uphold the respect for wildlife laws that have been established. This petition calls for immediate action to ensure that those allegedly committing these violent offences are held accountable, and that the countryside can be a safe haven for both its inhabitants and wildlife.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Commissioner Wilkinson,
The alarming rise of hare coursing in Wiltshire represents a significant threat to both wildlife and local communities. The violent pursuit of hares by criminal gangs, involving the use of dogs for bets and entertainment, reflects a complete disregard for the law and the welfare of animals. Farmers are left to defend their land amidst rising criminal activities, with reports of severe injuries sustained after confrontations with these gangs, highlighting the dangerous nature of this crime.
The local community is living in fear, with incidents of criminal gang activity causing substantial distress to farmers and their families. Many landowners are now investing heavily in defenses against hare coursers, only to find their efforts thwarted by determined criminals. The reported increase in hare coursing not only endangers local wildlife but also invites forms of violence that threaten the rural way of life. Those who engage in this unlawful activity are often members of broader criminal networks, with evidence indicating links to equipment theft and other illicit endeavors.
In light of the ongoing crisis, it is imperative that action is taken against those individuals and gangs involved in hare coursing. The demand for strict enforcement of the laws against hare coursing must be met with appropriate punishment for the perpetrators to ensure the safety of our farmland and the protection of wildlife. We respectfully urge you to intensify efforts to hold these offenders accountable and to combat the cruel practice of hare coursing that has escalated to such alarming levels.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
