Review of wildlife crime prosecution

Environment Minister announces move that will also look at the investigation of such crimes

News, 5 October 2007

The Environment Minister Mike Russell has announced a review of the way wildlife crime is investigated and prosecuted in scotland.

The review will be carried out by Paddy Tomkins, HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary for Scotland, and Joe O'Donnell, HM Chief Inspector of Prosecution in Scotland. They are to report their findings next spring.

The minister said that incidents of wildlife crime were increasing, particularly those against birds of prey. Other issues also needed attention, such as the illegal fishing of pearl mussels, hare coursing and the importation of rare and protected species.

He commented: "We are all victims of wildlife crime in that it threatens to diminish the rich natural heritage for which Scotland is rightly world-famous and which is of great importance to our economy.

"The time is now right to take a look at how crimes against wildlife are dealt with and what we can do to stop them.

"This detailed inspection will look at how such crimes are investigated and prosecuted and ultimately, how they can be prevented.

The Solicitor General Frank Mulholland said: "The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service take crimes against Scotland's natural heritage seriously. As with all offences, prosecutions can only be taken where there is sufficient admissible evidence to establish a crime and identify the culprit.

"We recognise the importance and particular challenges of tackling wildlife crime. That is why the service established a network of wildlife crime specialist prosecutors three years ago. I welcome this review as a useful way of looking at what we have achieved, and how we can continue to improve and develop our approach in this area."