Rural crime crackdown strengthens protection for Somerset communities

A regional day of action targeting rural crime in Somerset has been welcomed by the Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner (DPCC) Kevin Slocombe, who said the operation demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting countryside communities.

The coordinated operation took place on Wednesday 10 June, with officers from Avon and Somerset Police joining colleagues from Devon and Cornwall, Dorset, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire. Working alongside partners including Trading Standards and the Environment Agency, enforcement activity was carried out on the A38 near Brent Knoll, focusing on disrupting the movement of stolen machinery and vehicles and tackling wider rural and environmental offences.

During the day, a number of vehicles were stopped and checked, resulting in several arrests for offences including possession of class B drugs, drug driving, driving while disqualified and driving without insurance.

The Environment Agency also stopped 20 vehicles transporting waste, identifying five operating without the correct licences. Officers and partners also identified three sites suspected of illegal waste disposal, with concerns raised about a further site.

Deputy PCC Kevin Slocombe said: “This kind of intense operation, tackling rural crime, brings a lot of confidence to the farming and rural communities.  

“It is important we continue to protect rural living and the rural industries, especially farming and cracking down on crime will continue.  We have worked with Avon and Somerset Police to focus on rural and wildlife crimes and in the last year we have seen some excellent results, targeting organised and regular criminals who impact on our countryside.”

During the operation, the DPCC joined the rural crime team in meeting local farmers to hear first-hand about their experiences, discuss crime prevention measures and strengthen collaboration between police and rural communities.

The information gathered will now help shape further enforcement and partnership activity, as agencies continue working together to tackle rural crime and keep communities safe.