Working to tackle rural and wildlife crime across Hertfordshire

Officers and staff from across Hertfordshire Constabulary came together for a conference this week, aimed at tackling rural and wildlife crime.

The two-day event was held at Knebworth barns on Monday and Tuesday (4-5 September) and was organised by the Rural Operational Support Team (ROST).

Around 40 colleagues attended and heard interesting and insightful presentations from several speakers including representatives from:

• Wildlife and Countryside Link
• Historic England
• Natural England
• National Construction and Agricultural Theft Team
• National Rural Crime Unit
• RSPCA
• The constabulary’s fraud and cyber unit
• The constabulary’s Scientific Services Unit

ROST officers also spoke about their work and the capabilities they have within the team to support colleagues across the county, including all-terrain vehicles, thermal cameras and drones, as well as specialist knowledge.

In addition, the National Farmers’ Union, East Herts Council and the constabulary’s crime prevention officers were in attendance to provide further advice and information.

Chief Constable Charlie Hall, who opened the conference, said: “Hertfordshire is approximately 70% rural and is spread over a 634 square mile radius.

“This is a significant proportion of the county and highlights the importance of such conferences to ensure our officers and staff are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to keep our rural communities safe. A big well done to all those involved.”

Acting Sergeant Tim Armstrong, from the ROST, said: “Research shows that a lot of rural crime often goes unreported, but I hope the fact that we regularly hold these conferences demonstrates our commitment to rural policing and reassures people that we do understand the issues these communities face. We’re constantly working alongside various partners to improve this knowledge further.

“These conferences provide such a valuable insight and help colleagues to better understand the issues and how best to tackle them.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved for making this year’s conference another great success.”