Newly trained police dogs to boost crime detection across Avon and Somerset
Five dogs join the team to help police detect cash, drugs, and firearms
Five new police dogs have completed an eight-week training course and have achieved full accreditation, preparing them to strengthen frontline policing by detecting cash, drugs, and firearms.
The dogs, including Police Dog Andy handled by PC Amy Glew, are funded through money recovered under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
This initiative allows resources seized from criminal activities to be reinvested into policing, enabling the force to better target organised crime and aid community projects.
Dog Unit Inspector Ricki Lippiatt said that investing in dog capability is vital in tackling criminality and protecting communities.
These trained dogs play a significant role in identifying illegal substances, cash, and weapons, ensuring a strategic response to organised crime.
Using funds seized under the Misuse of Drugs Act helps prevent criminals from profiting from their activities, transforming these finances into police resources.
PD Andy and his peers are set to make a positive impact across the force area, becoming crucial allies in crime detection and prevention.
Joining PD Andy are PD Kipper with PC Vicki Redwood, PD Whizz with PC Hannah Holden, PD Kat with A/PS Clive Jemison, and PD Griffin with PC Chris Sellars.
These dogs and their handlers have undertaken specialist training to hone their detection skills, ensuring readiness for diverse policing operations.