In eight years on the job, Rural Crime Investigator Detective Senior Constable Robert Newman has seen the impact these crimes, which include trespassing and illegal hunting, can have on farmers in rural NSW.

While farmers try to protect their properties he said it can be difficult to maintain a high level of vigilance.

“Trespassing and illegal hunting have a gigantic impact of farmers as they are isolated which creates fear as they are very vulnerable.”

He said with money tied up in the property, theft and cut fences can cause farmers financial hardship as well.

He said if farmers come across trespassers they should deal with them by getting as much information as they can without engaging the offender.

“Don’t get into a fight with the trespasser as they may be carrying a knife or gun and they may not want to be caught. So make sure you get a good description and number plate if possible,” he said.

He said there is a lot farmers can do to look after their properties by patrolling the boundaries, installing locks, taking keys out of vehicles and installing technology like cameras and alarms at gates.

“My advice is to make it as hard for them as possible,” Senior Constable Newman suggested.

“It is vital that farmers report all crime to police so true figures are known, resources distributed where they are needed and any patterns in crime can be seen.”

The importance of reporting rural crime was again highlighted this week when Western Region Commander and NSW Police Corporate Sponsor for Rural Crime Assistant Commissioner Geoff McKechnie raised the issue, along with Deputy Premier and Minister for Justice and Police Troy Grant.

Assistant Commissioner McKechnie said rural crimes an have a substantial impact on the livelihood of farmers.

“The theft of livestock, produce and equipment; illegal shooting, trespassing and other rural crimes can have a devastating effect on farmers, the community and the industry as a whole,” Assistant Commissioner McKechnie said.

“We take every rural crime seriously; however, we’ve found it continues to go unreported because victims often believe there’s no proof, it’s not serious enough to warrant police investigation, or they think nothing can be done.”

Police want to send a message that’s not the case.