Police officers were called to reports of suspected hare coursers.
Essex Police Rural Policing Team were in Maldon following reports of hare coursing which has been illegal since 2004 under the Hunting Act.
A spokesman from Essex Police Rural Engagement Team said: “The team were straight out the door at the start of shift today to suspected hare coursers in Maldon.
“If you see illegal hare coursing call Essex Police on 999.”
Police are asking anyone who sees illegal hare coursing to contact them.
Anyone caught hare coursing will face an unlimited fine and up to six months in prison.
Environment Secretary George Eustice said: “Hares are an iconic and much-loved species.
“These tough measures will clamp down on the scourge of hare coursing, which blights rural communities up and down the country, and support the excellent work which the police are doing to tackle these often persistent offenders.”
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RSPCA Head of Wildlife Adam Grogan said: “It’s a barbaric bloodsport that sees hare cruelly chased, caught and killed by dogs.
“It’s high time hare coursing was consigned to the history books where it belongs.
“Hare coursing gangs inflict fear and suffering on their targets - the hare - but our rescue teams have also seen many dogs, used for coursing, coming into our care having been injured during the sport or abandoned when their owners no longer have use for them.
“This new legislation will give police and the courts more powers to end this cruel practice and the suffering it causes.”
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