Farmers and businesses given high-tech equipment for fighting rural crime
High-tech surveillance cameras and specialist data tagging technology have been distributed to farmers and rural businesses free of charge across the Melton Mowbray and Lutterworth areas to prevent rural crime.
Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Rupert Matthews, has provided funding for two linked projects led by National Farmers Union (NFU) branches in these parts of the county to deliver practical security measures to protect local livelihoods, deter crime and increase opportunities to identify and prosecute offenders.
Trailer owners have been able to have specialist Datatag systems fitted to their trailers at a series of events at Melton Mowbray Livestock Market with support from the Rural Crime Team.
Data tagging uses electronic transponders which are fitted in hidden locations on the protected vehicle or property – these transponders possess a unique identification code that can be read by a hand-held scanner used by the police to identify stolen vehicles or trailers and trace it back to its owner.
In total, just under 100 trailers have been protected through the scheme, increasing the likelihood of police being able to identify and recover them in the event any are stolen.
An event was held for rural residents, farmers, officers from Leicestershire Police’s Rural Crime Team and representatives from the PCC’s office.
Sgt Rob Cross, from the county force, delivered a presentation highlighting the importance of rural crime prevention and encouraging farmers to take proactive steps to safeguard their property.
A practical demonstration was also given on how to install and operate the new surveillance cameras.
Rural Crime is one of six key priorities in the PCC’s Police and Crime Plan with the commissioner committed to delivering initiatives that concentrate on crime prevention and support rural communities to implement schemes that will work in their local areas.
PCC Rupert Matthews said: “Rural communities are often targeted by criminals who exploit isolated locations, vast areas of land and valuable equipment.
"These initiatives give farmers practical tools to deter theft, protect their livelihoods and make criminals think twice.
“Beyond the technology, we have reinforced relationships with farmers, landowners and residents, while strengthening our partnership with the NFU and Leicestershire Police’s Rural Crime Team.”