Lack of wildlife crime convictions opening the door to other serious crimes - Wildlife & Countryside Link

Wildlife and Countryside Link has today (Monday 10 November) released its annual Wildlife Crime Report, highlighting that only 2% of reported wildlife crimes in 2024 resulted in a conviction (excluding fisheries).
The report also reveals startling new statistics on the strong connection between wildlife crime and other serious and violent crimes against people - including criminal damage, domestic violence, burglary and drug crimes.
The report details thousands of protected wild animals are being illegally killed, trapped, or disturbed every year, with offences ranging from badger baiting, hare coursing and raptor persecution to the illegal wildlife trade. Yet the vast majority of offenders face no consequences for wildlife crime. Lack of action on wildlife crime can leave criminals offending more widely, with over 80% of wildlife offenders active in other crimes against people.