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Following the surge in so-called donppings during the blockage, the British government has announced plans to create certain criminal offenses against pet theft. This means a stricter sentence than current law.
The new pet abduction crime is part of a series of measures announced on September 3 to address the growing issue of pet theft.
Currently, animal theft is accused of property theft. So the only criterion for a stricter decision is the value of the pet.
“The new crime prioritizes the welfare of our pets as sentient beings and recognizes the psychological distress of animals as well as their owners,” the government said. statement With the announcement.
The plan will probably be placed in front of lawmakers for voting as part of a crime bill before Congress.
“Stealing pets is a terrible crime and can cause great emotional distress to families while ruthless criminals are in their pockets,” Home Sector Lee’s Pritapatel said in a statement.
“The new crime of pet abduction admits that animals are more than just property and provides police with additional tools to bring these sick individuals to justice.”
The proposed law was published as part of a report on the increase in pet theft during blockages.
According to reports, 7 out of 10 animal thefts were due to dogs.
“Evidence suggests that about 2,000 dog theft crimes were reported to police in 2020,” a statement from the Interior Ministry said. “Prices for some varieties have risen 89 times. [percent] Beyond the blockade as it could make dog theft more attractive to criminals who are spending more time at home and trying to benefit from the surge in the public interest in keeping pets. .. “
according to TelegraphA person convicted of petnapping may face seven years’ imprisonment. Under current theft law, such a long ruling can only be met with a theft worth more than £ 100,000 ($ 138,000).
The report also recommended a stricter check of Microchip registration, especially for transfer of ownership, easier access to the Microchip database, and better recording of theft.
The proposal was welcomed by RSPCA.
“Pet theft can completely disrupt families and have serious welfare consequences for animals torn from everything they know,” said RSPCA CEO Chris Sherwood. Says.
“We are also excited about the government’s desire to simplify the Microchip database system, which addresses pet theft and other animal welfare issues, as well as general irresponsible pet ownership. I believe it will help. “
Simon Veazey
Freelance reporter
Simon Veazey is a UK-based journalist who has been reporting on the Epoch Times since 2006 on a variety of beats, from detailed coverage of British and European politics to web-based writing of the latest news.
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