FOI Wildlife Crime Unit (0495-2022/23)

Request

I would be grateful if you would let me know whether your organisation has a) a dedicated wildlife crime unit and b) how many police officers you employ whose main responsibility is wildlife crime

Response

Extent and Result of Searches to Locate Information

To locate the information relevant to your request searches were conducted within North Yorkshire Police. I can confirm that the information you have requested is held by North Yorkshire Police.

Decision

I have today decided to disclose the located information to you.

North Yorkshire Police do not have a dedicated wildlife crime unit. We have a rural taskforce which cover all aspects of rural crime, which includes wildlife crime. That comprises 7 officers, 7 PCSOs, 2 sgts and an inspector. There are also several wildlife crime officers who undertake investigations as part of there normal PC role.

Please note that systems used for recording information are not generic, nor are the procedures used locally in capturing the data.  It should be noted therefore that this force’s response to your questions should not be used for comparison purposes with any other responses you may receive.