Man jailed after attack on West Yorkshire Police dog
PD Zero was kicked by the man - but has since made a full recovery
Last updated 22nd Jan 2026
A man who repeatedly kicked a West Yorkshire Police Dog whilst being detained is now behind bars after being convicted under Finn’s Law.
The legislation, named after Hertfordshire Police Dog Finn, came into effect in 2019 and prevents those who attack or injure service animals from claiming self-defence.
James Strain, 38, of Holme Bank Close, Bradford, was charged with causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal following an incident in Bingley Town centre on 28 November 2025.
Strain was being aggressive and making threats outside a shop on Chapel Lane and PD Zero and his handler PC Roxy Cramp were deployed to the scene.
Whilst trying to handcuff him PC Cramp was kicked and spat at, with Strain struggling and trying to trip her with his leg. She made the decision to deploy Zero who, despite taking several kicks to the head and chest, helped detain the man until back-up arrived.
Strain appeared at Leeds Magistrates court on Monday 19 January where he was found guilty of assault with intent to resist arrest and causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal. He was sentenced to 10 weeks in prison.
Chief Inspector James Farrar, head of West Yorkshire Police’s Dog Unit, said:
“This was a sustained attack which saw an officer and a police dog kicked and spat at whilst carrying out their duties. This is completely unacceptable and it is right that the offender is now behind bars.
"We take the welfare of our working animals extremely seriously and, as with our officers, none of them deserve to be assaulted in the line of duty.
"Thankfully PD Zero wasn’t seriously injured and continues to help keep communities safe with his unwavering loyalty and bravery.”