Heartless rustlers dump 52 sheep in field

Heartless livestock rustlers have dumped a flock of sheep in a field – and some were in such poor condition they had to be put down.

Police in Somerset believe some of the sheep were stolen from Devon and as far away as Cumbria.

They were found abandoned in a farmer’s field in Yeovil on Tuesday (31 January).

See also: Rustlers steal 40 cattle in overnight raid on farm

Somerset and Avon Constabulary’s rural crime team are investigating where the sheep originated from.

Inspector Joanna Mines, who leads the team, said: “We believe the sheep we have recovered today are stolen and their tags show animals within this flock originated from Devon, Somerset and places as far afield as Cumbria.

“We are keen to hear from anyone who believes the animals might be theirs, or anyone who has any information that can help with our enquiries.”

Devon and Somerset Trading Standards and two local vets joined the team to check the sheep’s identity tags, health and welfare before they were transported to a safe location.

Poor condition

The sheep included a number of breeds – Mules, Jacobs, Swaledales and a Texel ram. Some were in such a bad condition that they had to be euthanised.

Please spread the word – we've seized 52 stolen sheep. Tags from #Somerset #Devon #Cumbria – get in touch if you've had sheep stolen 81819

— ASPolice Rural Affairs Unit (@ASPRuralCrime) January 31, 2017

Livestock theft is a particular problem in Somerset and other counties in the South West.

More than 600 sheep went missing in Somerset during summer 2016 – and 34 calves were stolen from a farm near Wells two weeks ago.

Insp Mines continued: “We understand the impact that livestock theft has on farmers and smallholders.

“The financial and breeding implications can be far-reaching and long-lasting.

“I would urge markets and slaughterhouses to play their part.

“Don’t create a market for stolen livestock.

“We do work closely with local businesses but we ask everyone to be vigilant.

“The public can play their part too.

“We have launched a new text number for people to send information and intelligence about rural crime directly to the team, so please get in touch 81819.”