Anti-social Behaviour and Criminal Offences

Anti-Social Behaviour and Criminal Offences by using Catapults 

Dorset Police have recently received reports of ASB, Criminal Damage and Poaching which has included the use of Catapults. 

      A window was smashed in Alderholt recently and offenders are known to be shooting at animals and birds etc with ball bearings. 

Constables, including our Rural Crime Team,  and Police Community Support Officers have been taking action to tackle the use of catapults to harm people and wildlife or cause criminal damage, by searching anyone suspected of doing so and seizing any items they find. Investigations are also being carried out into possible offences and those found responsible risk being arrested and brought before the courts.

It is not currently illegal to possess a catapult but if our officers suspect one is being used to commit crime, poaching  or antisocial behaviour then they will not hesitate to seize and destroy it along with any other items such as ball bearings. They will also make arrests and bring offenders to court if necessary and proportionate.

If you see anyone in possession of a catapult and/or ball-bearings then report the details to Dorset Police in the usual ways.  Please do not approach anyone actually using a catapult but consider use of '999 if offences being committed at that time. 

As always we really love getting vehicle registration details and if possible phone/CCTV images if safe to obtain. 

Help us to stamp out what can be very stupid, dangerous and with regard to animals very cruel acts. 

For more information on what anti-social behaviour (ASB) is and what you can do about it by visiting: https://www.dorset.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/asb/asb/antisocial-behaviour/