A 17-year-old male from Verwood has been arrested, interviewed, and released as part of an investigation into the killing of 14 sheep and lambs.

The incident happened on Sunday 17 July 2022 between 7pm and 6:15am when a vehicle entered a field in the area of Tollard Royal.

PC Sebastian Haggett, from the Dorset Police Rural Crime Team, said: “We are carrying out a full investigation into this matter and I would appeal to anyone with information that may assist our enquiries, including anyone with dash cam footage, to come forward. It is likely that this vehicle would of obtained damage through this incident.

“This is an appalling attack against a hard-working farming community and against livestock. We will step up our patrols in the area.

“If you see a vehicle in a field and you suspect the vehicle may be committing offences such as illegal off-roading, poaching or damage to crop I would urge you to ring 999. This week is anti-social behaviour awareness week and it so important that we continue to drive down rural crime and anti-social behaviour in our rural communities.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101 quoting reference 55220115601.