The Business of Farm Crime

Annual estimates of the cost of farm crime to the UK economy are in the region of £40m; however, despite the large financial and social cost, relatively little attention is extended in terms of research and policing policy. The purpose of this study was to understand the extent, effects and responses to farm business crime from key stakeholders. Survey responses from 96 farmers in the Dyfed-Powys area provided a representative sample to ascertain lived experiences of the farming community in relation to crime and relationships with the police. Key findings suggest that whilst the main categories of farm machinery and livestock theft were similar to national patterns; the perception of organised crime units from outside the local area were prevalent, but clear up rates were low and unable to validate these opinions. Satisfaction with the police was generally good, that there was a perception that the investigation and prosecution of farm and rural crime was not being adequately and/or appropriately resourced. Initiatives modelled on other force areas, such as dedicated rural crime officers with specialist knowledge were welcomed.