Catapult and Dead Pheasants Found After Police Chase in Bishop’s Waltham

A man has been arrested after police discovered a catapult, six dead pheasants, and drugs in a car following a short chase in Bishop’s Waltham.

Officers from Hampshire Constabulary’s Country Watch Rural Crime Task Force were patrolling Lower Lane at around 8.35pm on Sunday, 17 August, when they spotted a car travelling at speed in the opposite direction.

Police turned to follow the vehicle, which came to a sudden stop a short time later. Three individuals exited the car and fled on foot. Officers managed to detain the driver at the scene.

A search of the vehicle uncovered a catapult, a bag of metal ball bearings, a quantity of cannabis, and six dead pheasants found in the passenger footwell. A knife was also recovered nearby, believed to have been discarded by one of the suspects.

The driver, a 19 year old man from Southampton, was arrested on suspicion of several offences, including:
• Possession of an offensive weapon in a public place
• Possession of a knife in a public place
• Using a weapon to kill or take a wild bird
• Possession of a Class B controlled drug
• Driving a motor vehicle otherwise than in accordance with a licence

He remains in police custody while enquiries continue.

Hampshire Constabulary has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling rural crime, stating that this incident demonstrates the importance of proactive patrols and community vigilance.

Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity in rural areas, particularly incidents involving wildlife crime or illegal hunting.