"A high-velocity, single-impact injury": Deputy renews calls for tighter legislation on catapult use after death of cygnet

🦢🦆  Volunteers working to rehabilitate Surrey wildlife after “devastating” catapult attacks have backed calls to tighten up legislation. 

In the spring, Deputy Commissioner Ellie Vesey-Thompson urged ministers to give police greater powers to crack down on those who use catapults as weapons. 

Since publishing her letter, she has received support the National Rural Crime Network (NRCN).  

Meanwhile, during visits to the Shepperton Swan Sanctuary in Spelthorne, Ellie has discussed the issue further with those who care for wounded birds. 

▶️ "It's heartbreaking": Surrey volunteers discuss the impact of catapult attacks on wild birds

The Deputy wants catapults to be treated similarly to knives – putting the onus on any carrier to prove they have a good reason to carry such a weapon, rather than the police to have evidence of unlawful intention. 

Danni Rogers, who gives his time to rescuing birds for the Shepperton Swan Sanctuary, told Ellie of a “devastating” attack which killed a cygnet with a “high-velocity, single-impact injury”. 

Ellie said large, high-tech catapults and 100 ball bearings are available for less than £20 online. 

“Using a catapult to target wildlife and property is not only unacceptable; it’s abhorrent,” she said. 

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