"I'm delighted that Nottinghamshire has become the first force in the country to appoint a dog theft lead." DPPC Emma Foody.

Chief Inspector Amy Styles-Jones takes up new role to tackle rising issue.

Nottinghamshire Police has become the first force in the country to appoint a dedicated dog theft lead, after a survey revealed dog owners are concerned their pets' safety following the rise in cases of dog theft across the UK during the pandemic.

Chief Inspector Amy Styles-Jones was appointed as the new dog theft lead for Nottinghamshire Police by the county’s Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner (DPPC) Emma Foody.

Her appointment forms part of a three-point plan to tackle dog theft in the county. This plan also includes a renewed focus on safety advice for owners and the formation of a coalition of dog welfare organisations to tackle theft and demand Government action on tougher sentences. Guide Dogs for the Blind has already pledged its support.

DPPC Emma Foody said: “I’m delighted that Nottinghamshire has become the first force in the country to appoint a dog theft lead. There is growing alarm - both locally and nationally - over the threat of dog theft. This has been fuelled by a number of distressing incidents which have eroded public confidence.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the support of Guide Dogs for the Blind in helping us highlight how serious this issue is, and I’m keen to work with other organisations to do whatever we can to prevent dog theft in the future and disrupt the lucrative market that has emerged during the national lockdowns.

“As a dog owner myself, I know just how worrying this issue is, and I’m determined to fight for tougher penalties for those involved in this despicable crime.”