Police dogs part of new initiative launched to detect spiking substances

Specially trained police dogs able to detect drugs associated with spiking are part of a new initiative in a bid to tackle violence.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary and Thames Valley Police’s Joint Operations Unit have joined forces to launch a pioneering new police dog capability designed to help identify offenders carrying substances linked to spiking.

The specially trained dogs are able to detect drugs commonly associated with spiking offences, including substances often carried in small quantities and liquid form.

The initiative’s launch, which coincides with students starting university this term, forms part of both force's wider commitment to tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG) and ensuring people can enjoy a night out safely.

Dogs Major, Maverick, Puma, Dusty, AJ and Reggie have undergone extensive training and will support officers carrying out proactive operations across both force areas, with a particular focus on night life.

Chief Constable Alexis Boon said: "Everyone should be able to enjoy a night out without fear of becoming a victim of crime. While reports of spiking remain relatively low, we know the impact on victims can be significant, which is why we are committed to being proactive in preventing offences before they happen.

"This pioneering capability demonstrates how we are continually evolving our policing approach to identify and disrupt those who seek to harm others. These specially trained dogs provide an additional tool for officers working in our towns and cities, helping us to target offenders, support our wider work to tackle violence against women and girls, and keep people safe in the night-time economy.”

The dog’s new capability has also been recognised by the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), which has incorporated it into the national police dog portfolio.

The police force has said that despite the number of spiking remains low, “it is clear that prevention is as important as enforcement, and the force is committed to identifying and disrupting those who seek to exploit others.”

For more information about the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, click here.