New police dogs set to hit streets of South Yorkshire in fight against crime

Over the next few weeks, five dogs and their handlers will start their first shifts together following a 12 intensive training programme.

The dogs have been trained as ‘general purpose’ police dogs, meaning they will be used in searching and tracking for suspects and missing people, apprehending offenders and finding property.

PC Adam Fay, an officer for over 14 years, has been paired with Diesel - a 14-month-old Dutch Herder.

He said: “When I started as a police officer there was a dog handler assigned to every shift and I was in awe of the support they gave to officers.

“I love dogs and always wanted one but the time hasn’t been right – until now. Me and Diesel have been getting along nicely and I am hoping he will be great backup on the streets in difficult situations.”

PC Josh Ingam, who joined South Yorkshire Police four years ago, will be working with 16-month-old Dutch Herder, Bart.

He said: “I have always had an interest in dog handling and animals outside of work. I am looking forward to facing challenging situations and learning new skills.

“Although I have only been paired with Bart for a short time we are getting along well, he is showing great potential and is very energetic in his work.”

PC Ash Green, who joined South Yorkshire Police as a Police Community Support Officer in 2013 before becoming a response officer, has been paired with two-year-old Malinois, Blue.

He said: “I can’t believe I am getting paid to do this, I didn’t always want to be a police officer but since joining I have had an interest in the dog unit and I am loving being part of it.

“I love dogs and have family dogs at home, I am hoping that PD Blue will get along with them and become part of our family life.”

PC Dan Hurst, who joined the police in 2006 and has worked most recently as part of South Yorkshire’s Violent Crime Task Force, has been teamed up with 18 month-old Malinois, Marshall.

He said: “I enjoy the sharper end of policing and I am a huge fan of working outdoors.

“I am looking forward to getting licenced, heading out with PD Marshall across South Yorkshire and supporting my colleagues from all teams.

“PD Marshall is a lovely friendly dog, he loves to play, which we are using to train him and he’s got a hunger to learn.”

PC Dan Fox, an officer for 12 years and who has also worked most recently as part of the Violent Crime Task force, has been partnered three year-old Belgium Malinois, Louis.

He said: “I wanted to become a dog handler as dogs bring additional skills that you as an officer don’t have, no matter what equipment or training you undertake.

“Me and PD Louis have been bonding well and I am looking forward to catching criminals and for Louis to settle into our home life where he will become part of our family.”

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