Devon & Cornwall Police learn the tell-tale signs of stolen machinery

Spotting a stolen tractor is harder than it sounds. A digger or a trailer doesn’t carry a number plate the way a car does, and proving where a machine really came from can take specialist knowledge.

That knowledge is now being shared with officers across Devon and Cornwall.

A day of training at Okehampton

The Rural Affairs Team at Devon & Cornwall Police has been working with VIN Chip to deliver specialist training to officers, aimed at helping them identify stolen plant, agricultural machinery and equipment, and recognise the key indicators of theft.

Earlier this month, a group of specialist police officers and staff from across the force attended a session at Okehampton Police Station. They shared practical knowledge on machinery identification and the techniques used to establish an asset’s provenance.

The session was led by Nick Mayell, Trainer and Identification Specialist for Construction Plant and Agricultural Machinery and Equipment at VIN Chip. It explored the challenges of identifying stolen machinery, and the part security marking plays in supporting police investigations.

“Invaluable” insight for officers

PC Clarke Orchard is the force lead for farm machinery, agricultural plant and agricultural vehicle theft.

“The practical insight shared throughout the day was invaluable, helping officers develop their understanding of theft indicators and stolen machinery identification,” he said.

“Opportunities like this are really important in strengthening our collective capability to tackle rural crime. Our thanks go to Nick and the VIN Chip team for sharing their expertise and supporting our work.”

How security marking helps

VIN Chip combines forensic security marking with intelligent asset identification technology. The aim is to help establish ownership and support the identification and recovery of stolen equipment.

Nick said: “Understanding how to identify machinery and recognise potential theft indicators can make a real difference when investigating stolen equipment.

“Our training focuses on practical identification techniques, and the role security marking can play in establishing an asset’s identity. It was great to see such strong engagement from colleagues in Okehampton, and we’re pleased to be sharing our expertise to support their work.”

What happens next

Devon & Cornwall Police says it will keep working with partner agencies to share expertise and best practice, with the aim of preventing machinery theft and making sure rural communities feel safe and supported.

Rural crime updates and events are posted by the force’s Rural Affairs team on the Devon & Cornwall Police Rural Affairs Facebook page.

📷Training session at Okehampton Police Station