Police dogs trained to detect drugs used in drink spiking
Specialist police dogs are being trained to identify drugs commonly associated with drink spiking offences as part of a pilot by Thames Valley Police and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Joint Operations Unit
Drugs specialists police dogs Atlas and Major are being trained as part of the pilot. If successful, they will patrol the streets alongside officers to detect and “intercept individuals looking to cause harm”, said Thames Valley Police.
Detective Superintendent Jon Capps, head of Rape and Sexual Offences for Thames Valley Police, said: “This is a relatively new tactic that we are developing each time our dogs conduct training or go out and about.
“PDs Atlas and Major often join Project Vigilant deployments, where uniformed and plain-clothed officers carry out patrols in areas outside nightclubs, bars and pubs, to identify people who may be displaying signs of predatory behaviour.
“Together, they target and disrupt those in the area looking to cause harm, so that everyone can enjoy their night out safely.
“These dogs are proving popular with those on a night out but they are just one tool in our approach to tackling drink spiking and violence against women and girls.
“From our investigative and intelligence teams through to our frontline officers and local partners, including venues and councils, we are all committed to maintaining safe spaces for all those enjoying a night out, pursuing and preventing those who choose to commit offences and working together to protect our communities.”