Eagle Heights in Enysford targeted by burglars
11:11, 03 January 2020
updated: 11:11, 03 January 2020
An attempted burglary at a wildlife rescue centre was foiled when staff spotted intruders on CCTV.
The suspects were first seen at Eagle Heights, near Eynsford, at 9pm on Monday, December 30, driving the perimeter fence and shining torches on the centre's rescued huskies before returning and cutting the fence at midnight.
Eagle Heights director Sam Ames, 28, said: "There were about four people on quad bikes, but it was hard to make out as it was very dark.
"We were alerted by our CCTV that someone was on the grounds shinning torches around 9pm, so another director, who lives opposite the wildlife foundation, incorporated their nightly patrol to have a look.
"This alerted the trespasses and they disappeared, however, they returned later that night and cut the perimeter fence."
It is not known what the burglars were aiming to steal but Sam suspects it may have been the centre's quad bike due to the fence being cut all the way to the floor.
Although best known for its birds of prey, Eagle Heights is also home to reindeer, alpacas, meerkats and a number of huskies.
She added: "It's really upsetting, we've had huskies stolen before and although luckily we got them back you still feel violated.
"These dogs are our family and although some people see them as discarded trash rescues we love them .
"Unfortunately I feel people target us as we're in the countryside with easy access and getaways."
Huskies and other dogs are often stolen due to their value and for illegal use in dog fighting.
Eagle Heights wishes to thank its visitors and supporters for their donations over the years which have allowed the wildlife foundation to invest in high quality night vision CCTV.
The new deterrent has prevented much heartbreak for the Eagle Heights family and is believed to be the reason for the burglary's failure.
Kent Police stated: "We are investigating criminal damage to a fence at Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation on Lullingstone Lane, Eynsford, on 30 December 2019.
"It is reported members of staff disturbed suspects who then left the scene in a vehicle across a field next to the premises."
It is believed the quad bike drivers had driven towards Crockenhill and anyone with information is asked to call Kent Police on 01474 366149, quoting crime reference 46/14/20.
Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or using the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org.
