Man arrested after numerous dogs fall ill from 'poison laced food' left in Canvey park
It's reported the food had been left in the park on a regular basis last year
Last updated 6th Jan 2025
Police have arrested a man after numerous dogs ate food laced with poison that was left in a Canvey park.
Officers worked alongside Castle Point Borough Council and the RSPCA to investigate reports of rat poison being left in Kismet Park.
It was reported food contaminated with the substance had been left in the park on a regular basis last year.
A number of dogs are reported to have eaten food laced with poison, falling seriously unwell.
Enquiries have been ongoing with the help of the public, the council and the RSPCA.
As a result of this work, an arrest was made on Friday (3 January).
A 73-year-old man, from Canvey, was questioned on suspicion of damaging/destroying property with intent to endanger life.
He has been released on bail with strict monitoring conditions attached while our investigation continues.
Chief Inspector Paul Hogben, Castle Point district commander, said:
“My team absolutely understand how dogs are a vital part of the family dynamic and the impact this kind of behaviour can prove devastating to our community.
We’ve worked closely with partners on this investigation to reach this point, but crucially our enquiries have relied heavily on the help of the public.
I know the public have worked hard to remain vigilant in the park, offering us intelligence and evidence to assist us, and this has been invaluable.
This investigation proves how key that link between the public and the police remains.
I would thank everyone who has reached out to us to assist us in reaching this stage of our enquiries.”
Officers continue to appeal for information.