Livestock Theft / Agricultural Vehicle Theft / Hand Machinery Theft Newton Abbot

Devon & Cornwall Police have received a report of an attempt theft of approximately 60 sheep stolen from the Newton Abbot area between 12/04/2025 00:00 hrs and 13/04/2025 at 00:30 hrs.

Devon & Cornwall Police have received a report of an attempt theft of approximately 60 sheep stolen from the Newton Abbot area between 12/04/2025 00:00 hrs and 13/04/2025 at 00:30 hrs.

3 males in a small hatchback vehicle have been sighted driving in and around the rural areas of South and West Devon, with the driver dropping off the two male occupants who exit the vehicle and approach and scan rural properties on foot, looking for opportunities before waiting for them to return to the vehicle, before driving off. Both males sighted are dressed in wool hats, overcoats and wellington boots. 

They ask for farmers to please be vigilant for any suspicious activity, persons or vehicles present in or around your land, particularly OVERNIGHT - if you have any information please phone 101 quoting 50250091789

They are working with farmers to reduce the impact of this crime. Prevention requires a mix of deterrents, tracking and vigilance.

Please consider these crime prevention activities to protect your livestock:
- Hinder vehicle access: Block unused access points with obstacles like ditches, boulders of locked gates.

- Secure loading areas: Ensure sheep or livestock can't be easily herded into a vehicle near a roadside.

- Mark sheep/livestock clearly: Make it easy for police to identify stolen sheep.

- Know who's on your land: Work with other local farmers to report any unusual activity.
- Report suspicious sales: If you hear of any sheep being sold cheaply without proper documentation, alert the police.                        

- Keep regular head counts: Count sheep daily, especially in high-risk areas.
- Detailed records: Maintain up to date records with photos, distinguishing marks and ID numbers.
- Secure perimeters: Check fencing regularly for weaknesses or gaps where thieves could gain access.