Three men are due to appear in court on 17 June to face charges relating to hare coursing near Andover in Hampshire.
On the afternoon of 19 November 2024, police were called to reports of hare coursing taking place on farmland near Bullington Cross. Officers attended the scene, supported by the police helicopter, and detained three men.
Following further enquiries, the following individuals have been issued with a summons to appear in court for charges of trespass with intent to search for or to pursue hares with dogs:
- George Smith, aged 23, of Lyne Road, Virginia Water, Surrey
- George Mark Smith, aged 46, of Lyne Road, Virginia Water, Surrey
- Frank Wickens, aged 48, of Monks Hill, Emsworth
All three are due to appear at Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court on 17 June.
Police encourage anyone with information about rural or wildlife crime to report it by calling 101 or by visiting the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary website at www.hampshire.police.uk.
If a crime is in progress, always dial 999.
Businesses connected to the rural and wildlife environment may be eligible to join the police DISC system, which provides updates on rural crime and a channel to share information. To enquire about joining, email: discreports@hampshire.police.uk