Police professional | Police dog dies during operation

Police dog dies during operation

A Leicestershire Police dog has died after entering water at a country park while searching for a suspect.

Police said officers were called to Watermead Park in Birstall on Wednesday (July 3) after receiving a report that a man wanted by Nottinghamshire Police may be in the area.

Leicestershire Police said: “As part of our response to the incident, a police dog was also deployed to assist with the search.

“The suspect fled from officers before entering the water at Watermead Park.

“Police dog Zyla became unresponsive after she also went into the water and was taken to a veterinarian, where unfortunately the deaths of both were confirmed.

“After a continued search of the area, the suspect, a 27-year-old man, was located in the park and arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and subsequently on suspicion of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.

“He remains in police custody.”

Police said investigations are currently underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the dog’s death.

The investigation into the offence for which the man was wanted is being led by Nottinghamshire Police.

Detective Inspector Claire Hughes said: “This is an extremely sad incident which has resulted in the death of one of our police dogs. Our colleagues are supporting the dog handler at this understandably difficult time and our enquiries to clarify the incident are ongoing.

“We would like to speak to anyone who has any information about this incident and has not yet spoken to police to please contact us.”

Police paid tribute to Zyla, with Chief Constable Rob Nixon saying Zyla would “always be remembered for her bravery and dedication”.

The police also provide social assistance to PD Zyla’s supervisor as well as to officers and staff of the entire police force.

Mr Nixon said: “Our police dogs are an integral part of Team Leicestershire and play a critical role in some of our most dangerous operations.

“Zyla died in the line of duty and will always be remembered for her bravery, dedication and service. I know many in the force are deeply saddened by the loss of PD Zyla and I share that grief. My thoughts are with Zyla’s caregivers and all those affected. We continue to provide comprehensive welfare support to all affected soldiers.

“Yesterday’s events serve as a stark reminder of the dangers involved in policing and I would like to express my sincerest thanks to all police officers who assisted with this incident. Your bravery and professionalism in the face of such an incident is commendable.

“I would also like to thank the public for the kind messages we have received, including the messages of support for PD Zyla’s carer. We all really appreciate it.”

As a mark of respect, the troop flag is currently flying at half-mast at troop headquarters. This mark of respect is performed by the troop when an officer or staff member has died in the line of duty.

A memorial event is also being organized for PD Zyla.

Additionally, Mr. will be wearing a silver band with Zyla’s name on it at the Police Unity Tour later this month. The Police Unity Tour is held each year to honor police officers who have died in the line of duty.

Dave Wardell, co-founder and trustee of the Thin Blue Paw Foundation, a charity that supports serving and retired police dogs across the UK, said: “The Thin Blue Paw Foundation is devastated to learn of the death of a police dog while on duty in Leicestershire. Our thoughts are with her handler and everyone who knew and worked with her.”