Rural Crime Team commended for their part in law change

The North Wales Police Rural Crime Team has been commended by the Chief Constable for their role in strengthening protection for livestock and improving rural policing nationally.

It comes as part of their contribution towards the new Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025.

The new Act came into effect in March 2026 after officers identified several gaps in legislation relating to livestock attacks by dogs which was having a detrimental impact on farmers.

RCT Officer and NPCC Secretary for Livestock Offences, PC Dave Allen who received a Chief Constable’s commendation, said: “The impact on livestock attacks can be devastating. Keepers not only face financial loss but personal distress as well.

“This legislation ensures dog owners can continue enjoying the countryside whilst protecting livestock welfare and supporting farmers to manage their animals safely.”

PC Dave Allen and Rob Taylor, Welsh Government Wales Rural & Wildlife Police Crime Coordinator, were both involved in establishing the UK’s first dedicated Rural Crime Team.

It was during their work that they identified critical shortcomings in the existing legislation, which failed to reflect modern farming practices, economic realities, and the devastating impact of livestock attacks.

Since 2016, both have worked tirelessly as part of the National Police Chief’s Council Livestock Offences Group to strengthen protection for livestock.

Their efforts have led to landmark legislative changes, including:

• Expansion of livestock categories covered under the Act.
• More areas covered where livestock graze.
• New police powers for seizure, retention, and disposal of dogs involved in attacks.
• Introduction of DNA evidence collection for dogs and livestock, a pioneering forensic approach developed in collaboration with Liverpool John Moores University and forensic providers.
• Unlimited fines for offenders and enhanced powers of entry to protect rural communities.

Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman said: “Our rural communities are at the heart of North Wales, and we know just how hard our farmers and landowners work to care for their animals and their livelihoods. When livestock is attacked, it’s not just a financial hit – it’s deeply upsetting for the people affected.

“This change in the law has come from people who truly understand that impact. Our Rural Crime Team has put in years of dedication, working alongside partners and farmers to make sure their voices were heard. I’m incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved.

“This is about standing up for our rural communities, giving officers the tools they need, and making it clear that this kind of harm won’t be tolerated. It’s a real team effort, and one that started right here in North Wales.”