Cruel pet killer strikes at night

Some have had their food laced with poison, but brute force has also used been used to bludgeon two of the helpless creatures to death.

The latest incident was on Sunday night in Jubilee Road, Sidley, when a resident reported that a pet rabbit had been let out of its secure cage and had then died, possibly after ingesting poison. A guinea pig stolen from another cage is missing.

Police are appealing for any information that may help them to catch the culprit, and say that Sunday’s killing was not an isolated occurrrence.

Sgt Tricia Reeve-Fowkes, of Bexhill Police, said: “This is not the first incident in respect of the resident’s pet guinea pigs and rabbits.

“Previous incidents include animals being let out of their cages and poisonous substances being put in their feeding bowls.

“Two guinea pigs were found dead with fatal injuries to their heads.”

Bexhill animal charity founder Barby Keel said: “Whatever the circumstances behind these incidents, it is totally wrong that innocent animals should suffer in this barbaric way.

“I hope the police are given every assistance in finding out who was responsible and that the perpetrator is prosecuted for cruelty.”

Sgt Reeve-Fowkes said local Police Community Support Officers Andrew Smith and Darren Owen are currently patrolling the Jubilee Road area and making enquiries in an effort to obtain further evidence.

She urged anyone with information to contact them, herself or any police officer - in person or through Bexhill police station on 0845 60 70 999. Investigators would also welcome confidential information via the Crimestoppers hotline, 0845 555111. Callers do not have to leave their names, but could help provide vital clues leading to the arrest of whoever was responsible.