PC Steve Jay Suffolk Heroic Police Dog Aman
Heroic Police Dogs in the Line of Duty
In a heartwarming ceremony held at the Honourable Artillery Company in London, police dog Aman and his handler, PC Steve Jay of Ipswich Suffolk, were celebrated for their extraordinary bravery.
The duo, who served with the Suffolk Constabulary Dog Unit, were honored with the prestigious Hero Service Dog award after a harrowing incident that left both Aman and PC Steve Jay with significant injuries.
They both recovered fully.
The Incident
The incident occurred on a seemingly routine day in Suffolk. PC Steve Jay and Aman were called to assist in the arrest of an armed man who had already stabbed another individual. The suspect was highly aggressive and resisted the effects of both PAVA spray and a Taser. In the ensuing struggle, Aman, a German Shepherd, was stabbed multiple times while gripping the man’s arm, allowing PC Steve Jay to restrain and disarm the suspect.
Despite their injuries, both Aman and PC Steve Jay continued to perform their duties, showcasing a level of courage and tenacity that went above and beyond the call of duty. The severity of the attack highlighted the dangers faced by police dogs and their handlers every day.
The Award Ceremony
The Hero Service Dog award was presented to Aman by TV presenter Dawn Porter and fashion designer Ben De Lisi. The ceremony, part of the fifth annual Dogs Trust Honours, celebrates the unique bond between humans and their canine companions. Aman’s bravery was a focal point of the event, drawing attention to the critical role that police dogs play in law enforcement.
PC Steve Jay expressed immense pride in Aman, stating, “The level of aggression and violence displayed towards police on that day was significant. All officers present, together with Aman, displayed a level of courage and tenacity over and above what could be expected in such circumstances. Aman is our Hero Dog and we are extremely proud of him”.
Recovery and Continued Service
Following the incident, both Aman and PC Steve Jay underwent medical treatment for their injuries.
Aman’s recovery was closely monitored by veterinary professionals, and his resilience was nothing short of remarkable.
The Role of Police Dogs in Suffolk
Police dogs like Aman are an integral part of the Suffolk Constabulary.
These highly trained animals assist in a variety of tasks, including tracking suspects, searching for missing persons, and detecting drugs and explosives. Their keen senses and unwavering loyalty make them invaluable assets to the police force.
The bravery displayed by Aman and other police dogs underscores the risks they face daily. These animals are often the first to confront danger, protecting their human counterparts and the public. The recognition of Aman’s heroism serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by police dogs and their handlers.
The Importance of Recognition
The awards ceremony not only celebrated Aman’s bravery but also highlighted the broader issue of animal welfare in law enforcement. The introduction of Finn’s Law, named after another heroic police dog who was stabbed while on duty, has been a significant step in ensuring that service animals receive the protection they deserve. This law prevents attackers from claiming self-defense when harming police animals, thereby providing an additional layer of security for these brave creatures.
