AS DISCUSSION among online communities and debates between lawmakers intensify over clamping down on pet theft, figures from Dorset Police suggest there has not been a stealing surge. Recent months have seen a lot of talk about criminals stealing pets, with social media groups frequently reporting suspicious behaviour and concerning experiences. Nationally, DogLost, a UK charity that helps victims of dog theft, recorded a 170 per cent increase in the crime, from 172 dogs reported stolen in 2019 to 465 dogs in 2020. However, a Daily Echo Freedom of Information (FOI) request to Dorset Police suggests the force has not seen an increase compared to previous years.
Detective Chief Inspector Mick Richards said training for officers was improved and said the force was the first in the country to push for Stalking Protection Orders (SPOs) to stop offenders. He said: “We are committed to continually improving our understanding of stalking and harassment and our response to it. We want victims to be confident and know we will take all reports seriously.” SPOs can enforce a two year ban on offenders, but as part of the week-long awareness campaign DCI Richards said there are steps victims can take to protect themselves. He said: “In particular, don’t be tempted to block your caller, delete messages or throw away gifts as they could be used as evidence later on.
Tuesday, 16 March, 2021 - 06:30
A resident wearing a mask walks her dogs in Beijing, China, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP) London - Asharq Al-Awsat
Dog owners are more scared of walking their pets than this time last year due to the rise of “dognappers” during lockdown, said a recent survey.
According to DogLost, a UK charity that helps victims of dog theft, dognappings have risen from 172 in 2019 to 465 in 2020, a rise of 170 percent, leading to Nottinghamshire Police appointing a specialist dog theft officer to tackle the issue.
In February, the police warned of the rise in dog thefts by organized criminals, as the demand for puppies continues to rise due to their increase in cost.
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