Catapult attacks are on the rise in Kent.
In recent weeks we've seen some horrible reports of attacks on pets and wildlife – including the awful killing of a peacock called River in Boughton Monchelsea.
I have been sickened by these attacks. No one should face losing a part of their family to this mindless cruelty, and I'm determined to put an end to it.
That's why this week I led 10 Kent MPs in writing to the Home Office to ask for more powers to target these attacks – including tougher sentences and giving police more rights to confiscate catapults. You can find our full letter in the link below.
There are now record numbers of police officers on the beat in Kent, and we need to make sure they have the powers they need to properly deal with these attacks.
When used to inflict harm catapults cannot be considered toys – and we want the Home Office to recognise that.