New Nottinghamshire Police dog theft lead vows to collar thieves

The newly-appointed dog theft lead at Nottinghamshire Police has vowed to do everything in her power to stop families suffering the heartache of having their beloved pets stolen.
Chief Inspector Amy Styles-Jones, left, and Nottinghamshire’s Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner (DPPC) Emma Foody.Chief Inspector Amy Styles-Jones, left, and Nottinghamshire’s Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner (DPPC) Emma Foody.
Chief Inspector Amy Styles-Jones, left, and Nottinghamshire’s Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner (DPPC) Emma Foody.

Chief Inspector Amy Styles-Jones says she understands how dogs are a key part of the family for many people and having one taken can have a devastating impact on a household.

The newly-promoted officer, who has three pet pooches of her own, has now taken up the first police role of its kind in the country and will take a strategic overview of dog thefts and mistreatment in Nottinghamshire.

"I'm really excited to take on this role which gives a great opportunity to understand what has been a really serious issue nationally over the last 12 months and I want to ensure we put our resources in the right places within force to make sure it doesn't become a local issue,” said Chief Insp Styles-Jones.

"I understand how concerning it is for people. As a dog owner myself I know it is an emotive issue and that you want to feel safe walking your dog or whilst at home or in your garden with your pets.

"I understand that for many people your dogs are part of your family and Nottinghamshire Police understands that as well which is why we are the first force in the country to appoint a lead for this type of crime.

"I want to reassure people that if you want to report any concerns about your dogs being stolen we will take that seriously.

"I also want to make it clear to anybody involved in dog theft or the mistreatment of animals that it will not be tolerated."

Chief Insp Styles-Jones, who will perform the role alongside a number of other duties and responsibilities within the force, will work closely with the officers who investigate individual dog thefts – including neighbourhood and response officers.

The new role was created after a survey revealed dog owners are increasingly fearful over their pets' safety following growing cases of thefts across the country during the pandemic.

- Anyone who has their dog stolen is urged to contact Nottinghamshire Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.