Hare coursing offences – Sentencing Council consults on a draft guideline
An opportunity for those affected by hare coursing to share their views
The Sentencing Council has opened a consultation on a proposed new guideline for sentencing illegal activities associated with hare coursing.
The purpose of the guideline is to help the courts take a consistent approach to sentencing offences associated with hare coursing and bring together the full range of sentencing powers and ancillary orders available to them.
The Sentencing Council for England and Wales was set up in April 2010 to promote greater transparency and consistency in sentencing, while maintaining the independence of the judiciary.
The primary role of the Council is to issue guidelines on sentencing, which the courts must follow unless it is in the interests of justice not to do so.
The Sentencing Council is an independent, non-departmental public body.
The consultation provides an opportunity for victims of hare coursing and their families to share their experiences.
Responding to news of the consultation, CLA East Director Cath Crowther, said: “Hare coursing is an all-too-common rural crime that causes stress and anxiety to farmers and land managers on a regular basis.
“From the damage to crops, gateways and property, to the threats and violence, it is right that sentencing guidelines are considered to ensure the punishments for those caught committing this crime consistently match the severity of the incidents. It is something the CLA has been calling for in recent years.
“Only this week I have heard of a group of hare coursers racing at high-speed through rural villages, ramming cars and gates and damaging farmland. The perpetrators are showing complete disregard for the law.
“The CLA will be submitting a response to the consultation on behalf of members and would encourage everyone who has been a victim to share their experiences with the Sentencing Council.”