Report Reveals Fall in Recorded Wildlife Crime

This year’s wildlife crime report has revealed a drop of 20% in recorded crime over the five-year period to 2015.

The report brings together data from the Scottish Government, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Police Scotland, and all members of the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime Scotland (PAW Scotland).

While the five year trend is positive, there has apparently been an 11% rise in recorded wildlife crime between 2013-14 and 2014-15. There were 284 recorded wildlife crime offences in Scotland in 2014-15, compared to 255 in 2013-14.

According to the report, fish poaching remains the most commonly recorded type of wildlife crime, and there has been a small increase in these offences from 90 in 2013-14 to 101 in 2014-15 and a further increase in the five-year period of 19%.

“This fourth wildlife crime annual report continues to shine a spotlight on the ongoing issues we are facing to protect Scotland’s wildlife from illegal activity,” commented Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform, Roseanna Cunningham.

“Responding to feedback, this report now contains even more detailed data as we strive to improve the big picture view of the true extent of wildlife crime in Scotland,” she said.

“I remain determined to tackle outdated practices and attitudes,” she added. “Scotland’s wildlife is for everyone to enjoy; not for criminals to destroy for their own ends. The Scottish Government will use all of the tools available to enable our law enforcement colleagues to bring those responsible to account.”

Contact Us

If you have been charged with a criminal offence, including wildlife crime offences, then contact our expert criminal defence lawyers today.