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New hare coursing guideline “important step” in strengthening response to rural crime
BASC has welcomed the publication of a new sentencing guideline for hare coursing offences, describing it as an important step in strengthening the response to serious rural crime.
The new guideline, published by the Sentencing Council and due to come into effect on 1 June 2026, covers four offences associated with hare coursing and reflects changes introduced under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022.
Aggravating factors
The guideline is designed to ensure courts fully recognise the harm caused by these offences and includes aggravating factors such as the use of social media to promote offending, offending in the presence of children, and breaches of community protection notices. It also highlights the use of Dog Disqualification Orders and Recovery Orders.
Glynn Evans, BASC head of game and wildlife management, said: “BASC has long supported measures to tackle illegal hare coursing, acknowledging its impact on wildlife and the rural sector and communities.
‘Threats of violence or worse’
“Our membership includes gamekeepers, farmers and land managers. Many of them live and work in rural communities directly affected by this criminality. Some have experienced intimidation, verbal abuse, threats of violence or worse. This new sentencing guideline recognises the impact of these crimes and should help ensure consistency in approach.
“We have long worked with the police and others to tackle such illegality, including being engaged in discussions around the development of the national wildlife and rural crime strategies and recently, we have supported the National Wildlife Crime Unit by providing £40,000 to solely fund the poaching module for its digital training academy for police officers.”
Mr Evans said the updated guidance recognises the wider criminality and intimidation often associated with hare coursing and reinforces the need for strong enforcement measures to protect rural communities.
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