I've got a lot of respect for police dogs, they do a good job in difficult circumstances, and the vast majority are hard working and decent. So for two of them do die an agonising death of heat-stroke and dehydration is pretty grim.
I'm not even going to use this as an opportunity to slag off the police, but I hope the officer(s) involved are done for animal cruelty.
As an asside, legal minds, what would the courts dole out if the police brought them someone they'd arrested for smashing a car window to allow a dying dog to get some air? What about if it was a baby left inside a car?
Stay cool.
To be fair, the police will be every bit as appalled at this as anyone else... The officer him/herself must be distraught - they form close bonds with their dogs.
ReplyDeleteSadly, this is the sort of thing that happens up and down the land every summer. I welcome that the Beeb jumped on it - publicity is all the good that can come from this.
As to smashing a car window to save a dog / baby, if you had a real reason to think either were in distress then the police surely wouldn't make an arrest. Even if they did, I doubt very much if the car owner would support charges - and having the victim say thanks and present you with a box of choccies in court is a little embarrassing...
Martin
I'm sure they will, Martin. This post isn't slagging the police over the matter or even trying to imply anything.
ReplyDeleteif you had a real reason to think either were in distress then the police surely wouldn't make an arrest.
Well, you've got a lot more faith than me, mate...! (I'd still do it mind, but would fully expect the full weight of the law to follow)
There's ways of handling the risk though - for example we all carry mobile phones these days... Call the police control room (not 999), report it, and say you're going to break in to save the dog / baby. That act alone should shield you from having the police suspect you of being their up to no good.
ReplyDeleteOf course, if a police officer is in the area, so much the better. Let them put their truncheon to some good use for a change lol.
I know your cautious of the police - so am I - but I do think there are certain situations where they wouldn't stoop so low...
Martin
the courts wouldn't dole out anything because it wouldn't get to court, it's not an offence to commit damage if you have lawful excuse - protection of life & property would be deemed so.
ReplyDeletethe cops are to be prosecuted... sound fair...
ReplyDeletebut knowing dog handlers- they would be so upset at the deaths- the court wouldnt make them feel that much sicker...