Farms visited and vehicles stopped during another successful Operation Checkpoint

Officers visited more than 30 farms and stopped a number of vehicles during another successful Operation Checkpoint to crack down on rural crime.

The day of action last week saw officers, along with a rural volunteer and members of the Environmental Fisheries Department, conduct high visibility patrols throughout the area, including anti-social behaviour hotspots.

Officers visited and engaged with 31 farms and stopped ten vehicles of interest during mobile patrols. A total of six drivers were given advice for driving offences.

Two men were also reported for summons in relation to illegal fishing at Scaling Dam.

One member of the public reported an incident of livestock worrying to police and following enquiries a man was identified and given advice in relation to walking dogs on leads.

Cleveland Police’s force lead for rural crime, Chief Inspector Jon Hagen said: “We are committed to targeting criminals and preventing rural crime along with our partners, volunteers and neighbouring police forces.

“We want everyone who lives and works in rural areas to feel like the police are listening to their concerns and are taking action against offenders. I hope this recent work reassures the public that we are committed to making our rural communities a safer place.”

Residents can report rural crime and ASB online via the Cleveland Police website or by calling 101. Always use 999 in an emergency.

Information can also be submitted anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by phoning them on 0800 555 111.