While there has been a slight rise in the number of stock theft events reported in 2019 to NSW police, the Rural Crime Prevention Team believe it is a clear indicator that community confidence is increasing.
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The number of stock theft events reported to NSW police during 2019 was 376, a rise from 372 the previous year.
In the Central North Police District, there was a 35 per cent increase of stock theft events reported to police.
There was a decrease in the number of stock theft events reported in the Orana Mid Western Police District.
Across the Central West Police District, there was a 29 per cent increase in the number of stock theft reported.
State Rural Crime Coordinator Detective Inspector Cameron Whiteside said a key focus of the Rural Crime Prevention Team is to enhance community engagement.
"It's very important matters are reported as early as possible, whether stock be missing, stolen or otherwise," he said. "As it increases our chances of firstly recovering the animal, securing forensic evidence and also speaking to people while things are fresh in their memory."
Det Insp Whiteside said the Rural Crime Prevention Team are in the process of increasing focus on livestock carrier checks to intervene and help address the possibility of stock being stolen.
"We encourage all carriers to ensure they're documentation is spot on and the animals are fit to load," he said.
To avoid becoming a victim the NSW Police have a number of strategies.
They include regularly checking stock, paddock and fences but avoid establishing a routine time to make these checks.
Use strong chains and locks on all gates across access routes and on loading ramps. Ensure fences and gates are kept in good repair. Farmers can also alert their neighbours if anything suspicious occurs.
If leaving the property for an extended period of time, producers should liaise with trusted neighbours.
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