Police from the force’s Rural Task Force are investigating the incident after a white stag was found dead on Sunday 26 February 2023 in Cobham Woods, near Albatross Avenue.
This is the second deer that has been found deceased, with the first animal reported dead on Tuesday 20 January. Both animals had sustained gunshot wounds to their face which officers believe was caused by a high-powered rifle.
While the location is remote, police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incidents, which are believed to have happened at night, or anyone who may have information about people or vehicles seen near the area on or near the dates of the incidents.
Rural Crime Co-Ordinator Douglas Robertson said: ‘The evidence from these two deer attacks would indicate that no other animals were used to hunt them and that they have been shot.
‘The manner in which they were shot would have caused a significant amount of suffering to the animals and the use of a powerful firearm in a location accessible to the public presents a high risk to any other person in the area.
We are working closely with partner agencies to identify those responsible. Anyone with information is urged to get in touch with us so we can investigate and hold those responsible to account.’
Anyone with information should call the north Kent appeal line on 01474 366149, quoting 26-0273.
Crimestoppers
You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete their online form.