A 17-YEAR-OLD boy has been arrested in connection with the killing of 14 sheep and lambs in North Dorset. 

The boy, from Verwood, was arrested, interviewed and released under investigation by Dorset Police Rural Crime. 

The shocking incident happened on Sunday, July 17 when a vehicle trespassed onto a field of sheep and lambs, deliberately killing them. 

Bournemouth Echo: A 17-year-old boy from Verwood was arrestedA 17-year-old boy from Verwood was arrested

Some of the injuries are described as “horrific”, with sheep having to be shot dead. 

Police describe the incident, which happened in the area of Tollard Royal, as an “appalling attack” against a “hard-working farming community and against livestock”. 

Read more: Sheep killed in Dorset after vehicle enters a field

PC Sebastian Haggett, from the Dorset Police Rural Crime Team, said: “We are carrying out a full investigation into this matter and I would appeal to anyone with information that may assist our enquiries, including anyone with dash cam footage, to come forward. 

“It is likely that this vehicle would have obtained damage through this incident.  

"This is an appalling attack against a hard-working farming community and against livestock. We will step up our patrols in the area.  

"If you see a vehicle in a field and you suspect the vehicle may be committing offences such as illegal off roading, poaching or damage to crop I would urge you to ring 999.   

“This week is anti-social behaviour awareness week and it so important that we continue to drive down rural crime and anti social behaviour in our rural communities."  

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.Dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101 quoting reference 55220115601.   

Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity crime stoppers online or call them on 0800 555 111.