…Researched and contributed by Solomon Thomas.
A police officer was seriously injured after being attacked by a police dog set loose by a colleague during a car chase.
The officer was trying to apprehend a suspected car thief who had abandoned the stolen car near an alleyway after a ten-mile chase.
When the officer returned to the vehicle to check for other passengers, he was attacked by a police dog released by its handler.
The officer required surgery and remains in hospital.
West Midlands Police has launched an investigation into the incident, and their officer’s condition is being closely monitored.
A force spokesperson confirmed that no arrests were made, and their Professional Standards Department has been informed about the incident
. An internal investigation will be conducted as with all dog bites.
Eye-witness John Davies, a local resident, said he heard the commotion and saw a police officer on the ground with a police dog attached to him.
The dog handler arrived to get the dog off the officer, but it was only after reviewing CCTV footage that they realized it was the officer who was bitten.
Davies speculated that the dog was released too early and the officer got in the way of the dog getting the criminal.
The incident shows the risks involved in using police dogs in operations.
Even though they are highly trained, there is always a chance that they may attack someone other than the intended target.
It is essential to ensure that the dog handlers release the dogs appropriately and with caution, especially in high-pressure situations like car chases.
The incident highlights the need for ongoing training and stringent regulations around the use of police dogs to ensure the safety of both officers and the public.
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