Essex Police seized three dogs and a vehicle in Panfield after reports of deer being pursued by dogs. The incident took place on 11 October, when officers stopped and searched four men. A car and the dogs found inside it were seized under suspicion of involvement in criminal activity. A 28-year-old man was issued with a community protection warning (CPW), valid for three years. The CPW orders him to stop specified behaviours or face further legal action. He was also interviewed and reported for consideration of prosecution under the Hunting Act 2004 on suspicion of permitting a dog to hunt a wild mammal. PC Dane Wyatt, from Essex Police’s Rural Engagement Team, said deer and hare coursing can link to organised crime, trespassing, animal cruelty, and threats to landowners. Wyatt added that ignoring a CPW can lead to community protection notices, fines, or criminal prosecution. Police said they are working with other forces across eastern England, alongside the National Police Air Service, to tackle illegal hunting activity across county borders.