Northamptonshire Police is now issuing collar numbers and tags to serving police dogs after the passing of Finn’s Law, the Animal Welfare (Service Animals) Bill 2019 that makes it a criminal offence to cause them unnecessary suffering.
Police dogs Mac and Charlie were both welcomed at Force Headquarters today by Chief Constable Nick Adderley and Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Stephen Mold and given their collar numbers.
Previously, the only available charges at the time for someone who injured or killed a police service animal in the line of duty was one of criminal damage. With this new legislation, defendants will no longer be able to claim self-defence as a reason for injuring a police dog.
Northamptonshire Police Fire and Crime Commissioner Stephen Mold said: “Finn’s Law is a welcome change in legislation and ensures that the immense contribution that police dogs make to the safety of the county is properly recognised. Northamptonshire Police Dogs are an incredible asset to the Force and officers who have the privilege to serve as dog handlers count themselves very lucky indeed. ”
