Yateley Horror: Cat Targeted in Vicious Catapult Attack
A beloved tabby cat named Hazel has been left badly injured after becoming the latest victim of a brutal catapult attack in Yateley. The distraught family found Hazel with her face covered in blood and a ball bearing lodged in her eye – causing excruciating pain and irreversible damage.
Shocking Injury Uncovered by Vet
Hazel returned home on Thursday, 19th February, looking battered and bloody. Her elderly owners feared she had been in an accident and rushed her to an out-of-hours vet for urgent care. The vet’s hunch turned grim after a scan revealed a metal ball bearing embedded in Hazel’s eyeball. The injury was caused by a catapult, the family was told.
“We thought she must have caught her eye on a twig,” Hazel’s family said. “The vet noticed bruising and later called to say she might have been struck. Then the horrific news came — she’d been shot, and the projectile was massive. The vet said Hazel was blinded and her eye had to be removed. Mum and dad are devastated and angry. Hazel is tiny, not even 4kgs.”
Yateley Faces Growing Catapult Crime Wave
- Hazel is not alone. At least two other local cats and several wild animals have suffered similar attacks.
- Last July, injured Egyptian geese were found in Yateley Green pond after being targeted by youths armed with a catapult.
- Residents and police have raised alarms about this ongoing issue, which also includes damage to vehicles and homes.
Police Crackdown and Legal Warnings
PC Ben Blundell of Yateley Police Station confirmed a focused crackdown on catapult misuse, especially linked to wildlife crimes in Yateley and nearby Darby Green.
Catapults are officially classed as “offensive weapons” under UK law if carried without a good reason or used to harm animals or people. Offenders face serious penalties:
- Up to 4 years in prison for possessing a catapult as an offensive weapon.
- Up to 10 years for causing criminal damage.
- Breaking animal-welfare laws when injuring or killing protected species.
Police urge anyone with information on the attacks, or sightings of suspicious individuals carrying catapults, to call 101 immediately. You can also report totally anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.
Don’t let these cold-hearted attacks on innocent animals continue. Speak up and help bring the culprits to justice.
