Currently an animal being stolen is treated the same in law as the theft of inanimate object, such as a bicycle, but campaigners hope this can be changed to make sentences more closely reflect the emotional impact of such a crime. H&H finds out more...
The law does not sufficiently consider the “devastating impact” the theft of an animal has on owners, campaigners believe, as fresh calls are made for tougher legislation.
The House of Commons’ petitions committee has written to secretary of state for justice Robert Buckland urging the government to amend the Theft Act or the Animal Welfare Act to create a specific new offence of pet theft, with an appropriate sentencing range that reflects the true impact.
‘If these kids are capable of doing this now, to a pony, what are they going to do next?’
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Since joining H&H in 2018, Becky has covered a broad range of equestrian news including welfare matters, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings and road safety campaigns. She has also interviewed top riders including Scott Brash, John Whitaker and Ian Stark, to name just a few. Becky’s reporting has taken her to Canada for Spruce Meadows and France for Pau five-star, as well as the Royal Highland and Blair Castle International Horse Trials closer to home. She was also a key part of the remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympics and the Europeans.
