All in a day’s work: The rural crime inspector *H&H Plus*

Policeman Dave Smith on distinguishing between rumours and intelligence, and why he’ll probably never ride a horse

I’m not horsey at all, although my wife rides, but I am good at reducing crime, partnership working and sharing best practice. I live in a rural location, appreciate the lifestyle and understand the needs and concerns of rural communities.

Historically, national police haven’t made rural crime a priority. But in 2018, the National Police Chiefs’ Council launched the National Wildlife Crime and Rural Affairs portfolio, in which equine related crime was one of the priorities.

Eleanor Jones

H&H news editor

Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.