Attempt to Fleece Insurers With Stolen Sheep Claim Ends With Arrests

To lose one or two sheep might be careless, but putting in a claim for 650 missing munchers was always going to arouse suspicion;

The City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED) carried out a warrant as part of an investigation into the suspected making of fraudulent insurance claims over the alleged theft of over 650 live sheep.

The case was initially referred by an insurer to the Rural Crime Agency before being passed to IFED. The investigation relates to three claims made within 12 months on an insurance policy for the alleged theft of sheep from fields rented by the suspect. It is believed that the reported thefts did not take place and that documents submitted in support of the claims may have been fraudulent.

A total of £28,220 was paid out for two of the claims. A third claim for £64,800 was not paid following intervention by IFED and the insurance industry. As a result, a 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation and for making or supplying articles for use in fraud.

Detective Constable Carley Parodi, from IFED at City of London Police, said:

“Rural insurance fraud may be less common, but it can have a significant impact on insurers and genuine customers. Fraudulent claims distort the true picture of risk and can contribute to higher premiums for honest policyholders.

“We will continue to investigate these offences and take action against those who seek to profit through fraud.”

IFED officers attended a residential address in South Molton, Devon, on 13 October 2026, alongside the local neighbourhood policing team, the local authority and the Rural Crime Agency.

Two residential addresses, a garage and two vehicles were searched as part of the warrant. Further documentation relevant to the investigation were seized, along with a mobile phone. Officers also recovered two shotguns which breached licensing conditions.

Officers and veterinary professionals also carried out checks relating to the welfare of the animals and the number of sheep present against records held by the Rural Payments Agency. The sheep were all found well and alive.

The individual arrested was released under investigation.

Tim Passmore, Chair of the National Rural Crime Network, said:

“Livestock insurance fraud harms rural businesses, increases costs for honest policyholders and undermines efforts to understand and tackle rural crime. The National Rural Crime Network welcomes the partnership between the insurers, the Rural Crime Agency and the City of London Police in investigating these suspected offences. Sharing intelligence and working together is vital to protecting rural communities and ensuring suspected fraud is properly investigated.”