Horses stolen near New Ash Green recovered by officers

Updated at 3pm on 4 December. 

Investigating officers have safely located and recovered two of three horses which had been stolen from stables in Hartley near New Ash Green.

The horses were taken between 21 and 22 November 2024, after fencing was damaged by thieves and they were led through a field onto Ash Road.

Reunited with owner

An appeal was issued to the public, as officers followed several lines of enquiry to establish the animals’ whereabouts.

On Monday 2 December, patrols from the Sevenoaks Neighbourhood Task Force attended a location off Shamrock Road, Gravesend. They carried out an extensive search and two of the stolen horses were recovered.

The search was assisted by the victim, and the third horse could not be found despite extensive checks in fields or stables.

Patrols attended again on Tuesday 3 December and further searches were carried out in areas nearby.

The third horse was sadly found deceased in an area of vegetation close to a fence line.

Investigation ongoing

An investigation remains ongoing and officers have seized a horse trailer believed to be linked to the theft. Patrols have also recovered two stolen motorbikes and a suspected stolen quad bike.

Police are continuing to appeal to anyone with information to call the West Kent appeals line on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/198687/24.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.