Why Animal Crimewatch is critical in the fight against cruel sports

A family visiting Dartmoor National Park contacted us in distress after watching a horrifying incident involving the Mid Devon Hunt.  

They told us that the hunt ran wild in front of them, completely shattering the peace, causing upset and vowing they would never return to the park. Dartmoor, like other national parks, should be a sanctuary for wildlife, not a playground for illegal hunts. 

Thanks to the family’s quick action in reporting the incident through our Animal Crimewatch  WhatsApp service, we were able pull together a press release to ensure this story was shared widely, and it wasn’t long before the story caught the attention of Devon Live, an important media outlet in the region. 

In Devon Live’s coverage, we emphasised why incidents like this highlight the urgent need for action. Trail hunting is frequently used as a cover for illegal fox hunts, and there must be an outright ban on this practice. Additionally, we are calling for the introduction of custodial sentences for offenders to ensure these crimes are taken seriously and effectively deterred. 

This is just one example of the role we play at Animal Crimewatch. Many people don’t know where to turn when they witness something terrible like this, but our service gives them a clear, confidential and safe way to report incidents. And with WhatsApp (07552 788247), reporting is now even easier and more accessible. People can send us messages then and there, allowing us to respond quickly and gather evidence that could help put a stop to illegal activities. 

What’s most powerful about this recent Dartmoor case is that it serves as a clear example of why we need the public's help. Without that family’s report, this incident might have gone unnoticed, and the conversation around strengthening wildlife laws might not have gained the attention it deserves. 

At Animal Crimewatch, we rely on people like you — those who care about animals and refuse to stay silent in the face of cruelty. Your reports help us build cases, raise awareness, and, most importantly, advocate for stronger protections for our wildlife. Whether it’s an incident on Dartmoor or anywhere else across the country, each report adds to the momentum needed to finally end cruel practices like fox hunting. 

So, if you see something, say something. Our team is here, ready to act. Together, we can continue to protect our wildlife and preserve the natural beauty of our landscapes for future generations. 

You can contact Animal Crimewatch by visiting league.org.uk/animal-crimewatch/report.