Earlier this year, I wrote to Nottinghamshire Police to express my concerns about supposed rise in pet theft in the County. Nottinghamshire Police have since appointed a Lead Officer to focus on the theft of Dogs.
Recently, the Environment Secretary, George Eustice MP announced a new Pet Theft Taskforce. The new taskforce has been set up to gather evidence to understand the factors that may be contributing to any perceived rise in thefts and to recommend any necessary measures to tackle the problem.
The theft of a pet is an existing offence under the Theft Act 1968, with offenders facing a maximum penalty of seven years in prison.
Pet theft is a heart-breaking crime.
With more of us spending time at home over the past 18 months, I have been concerned to hear about the effects of pet theft on families across Sherwood.
I want to work with Nottinghamshire Police to see what we can do to crack down on pet theft .
I am hoping that this survey will give us some key information about people’s concerns and perceptions about pet theft.
- Rt. Hon. Mark Spencer MP - Member of Parliament for Sherwood