Agenda item

Inspector Coombe of Avon and Somerset Constabulary introduced himself and Sergeant Wells, and they provided an overview of some of their concerns and crime trends in the area. They noted they had seen an increase in crime relating to farms, with agricultural trailers, rotavators and other farming equipment being a target. There had also been an increase in car crime as there was currently a market for the batteries. Many thefts were opportunist but organised groups were also involved. It was noted a number of farmers had attended the recent PACT meeting to raise their concerns, Other issues raised at the PACT meeting were speeding, HGV’s and tractor trailers being overloaded.

During a short discussion the Police Officers responded to points of detail including:

·         Some stolen agricultural vehicles and machinery may be shipped out of the country.

·         Rustling and illegal abattoirs – crime was usually seasonal and often organised groups may be involved.

·         The Rural Crime Team would have more knowledge about the technology available to help tackle rural crime.

·         Speed limits for tractors are the same as for other large vehicles. Some types of vehicle may be restricted to 25mph.

·         Farmers were encouraged not to leave vehicles or machinery etc unattended in fields and to install extra security. They were also encouraged to challenge and identify people or vehicles on their land.

·         There needed to be some social responsibility about buying second hand goods.

·         Quite pleased with outcome of recent PACT meeting but would be good to see more people attend in the future, and for more partners, such as SSDC, to be at the top table.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

At the end of discussion members provided some feedback regarding the PACT meeting, and thanked officers for attending Committee with their verbal update.