DAVID HILDEN AND TYRON YOUNG CAUGHT POACHING NEAR CROYDON AND MORDEN

In a recent case that highlights ongoing concerns about wildlife crime and illegal hunting activities, David Hilden and Tyron Young, both members of the travelling community, faced legal consequences after their involvement in poaching offences. Hilden, born on July 11, 1983, residing at the travellers' site in Lathams Way, Croydon CR0 4XP, and Young, born around 1997, from Bolton Drive, Morden SM4 6GF, were apprehended by police officers during an incident that took place on October 15, 2022.

According to reports, the two men were observed walking across crop fields near Littlebury, Saffron Walden, Essex, accompanied by four dogs. Among these animals were two lurchers on slip leads, which are often used in hunting activities. The area where they were found had no public footpaths, and the landowner had not granted permission for anyone to be on the land at that time. This raised suspicions that the men might have been engaged in illegal hunting or poaching activities.

During police interviews at the scene, Hilden claimed that he had entered the land with the intention of pursuing rabbits, suggesting a motive related to game hunting. Conversely, Young stated that he was simply out walking his dog, denying any involvement in poaching. Despite their differing accounts, both men were charged and subsequently admitted to a charge of daytime trespass in pursuit of game during their court appearances.

Legal proceedings resulted in penalties for both individuals. Hilden was ordered to pay a total of £273, which covered fines, costs, and a surcharge. Young faced a slightly higher financial penalty, amounting to £385. Additionally, both men received a three-year ban from owning or keeping dogs, a restriction that will remain in effect until February 2026. This ban was issued under section 66 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, marking the first time such a disqualification order has been applied for poaching offences involving pursuing hares with dogs.

Investigating officer Pc Nigel Wright, of Essex Police’s Rural Engagement Team, emphasized the seriousness of wildlife crime, stating, “The poaching of wild animals is extremely cruel but it can also cause a lot of damage to crops and farmland, which is very costly for the land owner or farmer.” The case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat illegal hunting and protect wildlife and agricultural interests in the region.