Information appeal as police investigate incidents of extreme animal cruelty: Wrotham/Maidstone
(TN15 - Monday, 19 December, 2011)

15 sheep killed and injured and a dog killed - officers are not linking the incidents at this time

Kent Police is issuing an urgent appeal for information after 15 sheep were found dead and injured in a field in Wrotham, West Kent.

It appears that they were deliberately run over by a four wheel drive.

Police were called just after 9am on 19 December 2011 when a local person found the sheep.

Those that hadn't been killed in the attack were in great pain and distress.

Some had limbs missing and broken and had to be humanely destroyed.

The sheep were found in a field off the A20 London Road which is also opposite the Tower industrial estate.

The field is owned by the St Cleres estate near Kemsing but the sheep farmer is from Sussex.

The gate to the field had been opened and there were tyre tracks on the ground.

Significantly, police found part of a black moulded bumper bar which a serial number proves comes from a Mark I Landrover Discovery.

Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector, Adrian Allen, said:

'If anyone knows someone with this type of vehicle that has sustained bumper damage or hears or knows anything that they think is relevant, they are urged to call the police.

'This is a terrible crime that has resulted in great pain, distress and suffering and it is difficult to imagine who could do such a callous thing.

'We are keen to establish a motive for this attack as quickly as possible.'

Police are also investigating a report of a second act of animal cruelty in Maidstone, which is not being linked to the sheep attacks at this time.

Officers were contacted at 12.50pm on Monday 19 December after receiving a call stating that a dead dog had been found in Mote Park, Maidstone.

It was reported that the Labrador had been deliberately killed.

The dog was discovered at 7.30am.

The matter is being investigated by Inspector Tristan Stevens, who said:

‘This crime is now under investigation and we are asking anyone who has any information about this act of extreme cruelty to come forward.

'To cause such suffering to a defenceless animal is cowardly and callous and we are keen to ensure the person responsible for this is arrested.'

Anyone with information is asked to call Inspectors Allen or Stevens on 101.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Police Force: Kent

Address:
Wrotham
Sevenoaks
KENT
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