Stock Theft has increased by 30 Per Cent
Back to Press releasesShadow Minister for Regional and Rural Affairs Mick Veitch is calling on the NSW Government to boost resources for the Stock Squad following an alarming rise in incidents over the past 12 months.
"According to the latest Crime Statistics released today, stock theft increased by 31.7 per cent in the year to September 2011," said Mr Veitch.
"The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research revealed there were 686 incidences of stock theft this year, up from 521 last year.
"The cost of stock theft to farmers and rural properties is significant and the Government needs to treat this problem with the seriousness it deserves."
Mr Veitch said he is concerned that the Government has dropped the ball when it comes to policing in country NSW.
"Police Minister Michael Gallagher has been sitting on an audit of police resources for months now, using it as an excuse for total inaction," he said.
"A 31 per cent increase in stock theft was unheard of until now, but this Government seems to be turning a blind eye.
"Farmers are paying the price for Minister Gallagher\'s failure to act.
"I\'ll be visiting local regional communities throughout the summer and I know I will hear from land owners about issues like stock theft on their properties.
"It wouldn\'t hurt the Minister for Police to do the same," said Mr Veitch.