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Hare coursing is a banned blood sport and
is an illegal activity which sadly we see more
of from August.

The Hunting Act 2004 made hare coursing
illegal with a fine of up to £5,000 if
convicted by a Magistrates’ Court.
Northamptonshire Police is running a
CrimeStoppers campaign focusing on
hare coursing to highlight the issue and to
encourage reporting of any incidents.
To help prevent this happening here are
some steps to consider:

• Consider methods of restricting access to
land, such as blockades in entrance ways,
strategic ditch digging and padlocking gates
• Consult your local rights of way access
officer for guidance where public access
may be affected. Check ditches or
other obstacles do not affect any crosscompliance
requirements
• Always report incidences no matter how
minor to ensure the police have an accurate
reflection of the extent of the issue
• If it is a ‘live’ incident always dial 999,
otherwise report on line or dial 101.
Or alternatively, call Crimestoppers
anonymously on 0800 555 111.
• Make sure you clearly state hare coursing
to ensure the incident is recorded
correctly
• Have field grid references ready – these
will ensure police can locate you quickly -
What3Words app can assist with this
• If possible provide a description of the
person including notable features, and
also descriptions of any vehicles including
number plates and any distinguishing
features
• Be discreet when collecting evidence.
Approaching hare coursers while holding
a camera may be inflammatory. If you
use a dash cam you may want to pass any
footage to the police as evidence
• Ensure you receive and make note of your
crime reference number 

In an emergency call 999
For non emergencies call 101
www.northants.police.uk