FOI 422800

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST REFERENCE NO: 422800

I write in connection with your request for information which was received on 21^st July 2025. Please find below the response to your request:

Please provide the following data held by your force for the period from 1 January 2022 to the present (or the most recent available date)

1a) The total number of stop and search incidents where the object of the search included offensive weapons

1b) The total number of stop and search incidents where the object of the search included offensive weapons and there was a suspected or alleged link to wildlife crime.

2. Of the incidents involving wildlife crime recorded on police intelligence recording systems in addition to crime recording systems, how many involved the possession, suspected possession, or use of catapults?
3. For the searches described in point 2, please provide a breakdown of:

The outcome of each search (e.g. no further action, arrest, charge, summons, caution).

The number of subjects aged: 1.) Under 11 years old 2.) Between 11-18 years old.

Whether there were any suspected links to other forms of antisocial behaviour.

The specific offences alleged or identified (e.g. poaching, hunting with dogs, criminal damage to wildlife, etc.).

4. If available, please provide any guidance, policy, or briefing documents used by your force regarding stop and search in the context of wildlife crime or catapult-related offences.

Reply

Please provide the following data held by your force for the period from 1 January 2022 to the present (or the most recent available date)

1a) The total number of stop and search incidents where the object of the search included offensive weapons

1b) The total number of stop and search incidents where the object of the search included offensive weapons and there was a suspected or alleged link to wildlife crime.

2. Of the incidents involving wildlife crime recorded on police intelligence recording systems in addition to crime recording systems, how many involved the possession, suspected possession, or use of catapults?

Nil Return

3. For the searches described in point 2, please provide a breakdown of:

The outcome of each search (e.g. no further action, arrest, charge, summons, caution).

The number of subjects aged: 1.) Under 11 years old 2.) Between 11-18 years old.

Whether there were any suspected links to other forms of antisocial behaviour.

The specific offences alleged or identified (e.g. poaching, hunting with dogs, criminal damage to wildlife, etc.).

4. If available, please provide any guidance, policy, or briefing documents used by your force regarding stop and search in the context of wildlife crime or catapult-related offences.

There is nothing specific in the stop and search policy in respect of wildlife crime or catapult related offences.