Increase in pet thefts during lockdown
UK Ministers are cracking down on pet theft, after a surge in crimes during lockdown.
Tougher penalties and a new classification for the offence are among the Pet Task Force recommendations to be implemented.
Dog-nappers could be jailed for up to 5 years, under plans to make the abduction of pets a criminal offence.
Animal rights activists say this will recognise the "emotional turmoil" caused to both the animal and it's owner, when a pet is abducted.
Demand for puppies during lockdown triggered a surge in robberies, often by criminal gangs.
England's Justice, Secretary Robert Buckland, is recognising the emotional distress owners suffer:
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