The Liberal Democrats are advocating for the establishment of specialist rural crime teams in every police force across England and Wales. This initiative calls for dedicated officers with improved access to technology, like drones, to address serious rural crimes, including livestock theft. Funded by potentially abolishing Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs), this move aims to allocate resources more effectively. With rural crime costs soaring to £52.8 million in 2023, party leader Sir Ed Davey stresses the necessity for specialized policing to enhance the safety of rural communities, addressing a significant political topic ahead of upcoming local elections.
Sir Ed Davey emphasized the urgent need for better funding and resources for rural crime teams, stating that 'surely that money would be better spent making sure we have the officers with the right technology to go after these awful criminals.'
The Liberal Democrats highlighted a staggering increase in the cost of rural crime, with estimates reaching £52.8 million in 2023, reflecting a nearly 22% rise since 2020.
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