A 70-year-old man has been arrested for livestock poaching.

It follows a police investigation into reports of livestock being shot and killed from a public road using thermal optical equipment, near Darfield.

Senior Constable Hamish Caird said the alleged offender was identified through testing the fired projectiles, which were extracted from the animals, for their unique markings. 

The markings were able to be linked to the potential weapon used. 

This testing capability brought the investigation to a successful conclusion.

A 70-year-old man has been summoned to appear in court later this month on charges of ill-treatment of animals, theft of livestock and the reckless discharge of a firearm.

Senior Constable Caird said “there are serious repercussions for poachers, with the penalty being a maximum of a $100,000 fine, plus up to two years in prison.

Unlawful hunting puts other people who may be in the area at risk and could have potentially fatal consequences.”

Senior Constable Caird said poaching can also be a catalyst for other crimes, such as damaging machinery and the theft of fuel.

“Police would like to remind rural property owners to make security a priority.  We urge people to keep in contact with your neighbours and let one another know if you see anything unusual.  A lot of reported thefts are committed by opportunistic criminals. 

Police will use its ballistics, DNA and genomic testing capabilities to prevent crime and harm in rural communities, delivering the services that our communities expect and deserve.”