Hotspot for cattle rustling

North Yorkshire was named a hotspot for rustling of sheep in particular, with thieves looking to capitalise on strong prices for lamb.

The revelation was made in new criminologist research, sponsored by NFU Mutual, which also shows that criminals are targeting popular beauty spots and walking routes in order to steal from visitors and residents alike.

Based on testimony from convicted criminals, the report showed that during the months popular with tourists, village festivals were named as “opportune events” to scope out potential targets for theft.

In quieter times of the year, some criminals said they would disguise themselves to blend in, often posing as delivery drivers or mechanics by wearing overalls and carrying a toolbox.

Another typical tactic detailed was to take on petty tasks for farmers and village dwellers, such as vermin control or minor maintenance to build trust within countryside communities, but use the time to scout the area for opportunities. For the more organised criminals interviewed, agricultural diesel and heating oil was named as the key theft target.

For smaller scale or opportunistic criminals, tools inside garages and sheds were popular, along with metal.

As well as being named a hotspot for sheep rustling, Yorkshire was also witnessing high incidence levels of tractor thefts, the second highest in the UK.

Farms are being targeted by gangs who steal them and sell them on the black market to foreign buyers.

A spokesman told the Yorkshire Post: “The North East has seen rustling more than double in 2011, the second worst affected area in the UK behind Northern Ireland.

“Thieves are now stealing sheep in large numbers due to the high prices, thinking they can sell them on for something.”

Richard Percy, chairman of NFU Mutual, said: “It is a sad fact, but countryside communities face an on-going fight against crime.

“Many farmers and country dwellers have spent time and money on upping security measures to protect their homes and businesses from such criminals.”

Stefan Fafinski, from the Criminologists Invenio Research, said: “Criminals operating out of the countryside seem to be using more considered and manipulative tactics in order to scope out potential targets.”

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