Community Appeal: Help Us Tackle Dangerous Catapult Misuse

Dear Residents,

I hope this message finds you well.

I am writing to you to raise awareness of a recent increase in incidents involving the misuse of catapults within our community. Whilst some may view catapults as harmless, when used irresponsibly they can cause significant damage, injury, distress, and fear to residents, pets, and wildlife.

Whilst catapults have a number of legitimate uses, such as fishing and certain sporting activities, we regularly encounter instances where they are misused in a manner that causes harm, damage, and distress within our communities.

In recent years, catapults have been used to facilitate a range of offences, including:

Such behaviour is obviously unacceptable and will not be tolerated within our community.

We recognise that those involved are often young people who may not fully understand the potentially serious consequences of their actions. What may initially be perceived as a game or harmless fun can quickly result in criminal offences being committed. For example, using a catapult to shoot at wild birds or other animals can constitute offences under wildlife and animal welfare legislation, whilst causing damage to property or injury to a person may lead to criminal proceedings and a lasting impact on future education, employment, and career opportunities.

We would encourage parents, guardians, and carers to speak with young people about the responsible use of catapults and the legal consequences that can arise from their misuse. Through education, awareness, and positive community engagement, we can work together to prevent incidents before they occur.

We are committed to working alongside residents and partner agencies to identify those responsible and take appropriate action where offences are committed.

To support this message, we have produced a community awareness poster and would be grateful if you could share it as widely as possible with family, friends, neighbours, community groups, schools, and local organisations. The more people who see and share this message, the stronger our collective response will be.

By spreading awareness, we can send a clear message that our community stands together against anti-social and dangerous behaviour, and that we will not tolerate actions that place others at risk.

If you witness the misuse of catapults, or have information regarding those involved, please report it to Kent Police via:

Thank you for your continued support in helping to keep our neighbourhood safe.

Kind regards,

PC Boosey