Kent Police in summer holiday warning to parents over catapults
In the letter Kent Police said: "While carrying a catapult is not a criminal offence, its use may lead to criminal liability", and said parents should "dissuade" children from leaving home with a catapult.In June Spelthorne Borough Council in Surrey introduced a public space protection order, with anyone caught carrying a catapult facing a fine.
"Foreign students are being attacked with catapults"Catapult attack sparks increase in foot patrolsCalls for catapult law to tackle wildlife crime
Insp Joe Breen of Kent Police said: "The use of catapults to harm wildlife and cause criminal damage is a national issue that has also been reported in Kent, and we are keen to ensure children and their parents are aware of the risk."We are grateful to everyone who heeds our advice, which forms part of our overall approach to tackling offences involving catapults that can also include seizing items and making arrests."
Danni Rogers, from Camberley, a volunteer at Shepperton Swan Sanctuary, has been trying since January 2024 to have the act of carrying a catapult in public criminalised.His campaign began after dealing with dead or injured birds, and he has written to the forces of Sussex and Surrey, asking them to follow Kent's lead.He said: "Kent has been one of the hot spots in the last 18 months so it's good to see proaction rather than reaction."To get the kids talking about it and know the laws, they will approach an adult or authority and report those who have decided to use catapults."
Sussex Police said it recognised "the impact to our communities and wildlife through dangerous use of catapults".It said: "The number of incidents where a catapult is used to harm wildlife is low in Sussex, however we work in partnership with other forces to support initiatives that further reduce this type of crime."We also encourage parents to speak with their children about these issues."In a statement Surrey Police said: "Offences involving catapults tend to be under reported and we would encourage reports of offences and even persons carrying catapults as it helps build up a picture."The local team will increase patrols where peak time or days are identified."
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