Three men arrested after deer shot dead on farmland

Police investigating the 18 deer found shot dead on farmland in Kinlet, Bewdley, overnight and they were discovered at 9.30am on Saturday 4 August.

Around 20 officers, staff from the firearms licensing department and partners from environmental health and the food standards agency worked together to conduct early morning arrests of three males on suspicion of offences under the Deer Act.

A 59-year-old man, from Highley, Bridgnorth, a 35-year-old man from Cleobury Mortimer, and a 22 year-old-man from Kidderminster were arested on suspicion of offences under the Deer Act.

All three were interviewed and released under investigation. Further work will now take place.

Inspector Jake Wright of West Mercia Police said: "The operation was in direct response to the unlawful killing of 18 deer on the 4 August and highlights our commitment to tackle rural crime.

"Three male's assisted officers with our enquiries and have been released under investigation. The incident quite rightly attracted condemnation from across Worcestershire and I hope the positive action from police and partners sends a strong message to anyone else intent on committing crime within our countryside."