A police dog who survived a nasty machete attack on the job is set to retire with his handler. PD Stark, a German Shepherd and Belgian Malinois cross, was struck up to 20 times with a rusty blade, suffering nasty injuries to his face in 2020.
The dog was on the trail of suspected burglars in the early hours of the morning on November 14 when the machete-wielding attacker emerged from his allotment hiding place. The dog was attacked with the blade, suffering head wounds so serious the officer initially feared he had lost an eye.
But a few months later, he was back on shift hunting down a wanted criminal. Now, after a six year career with West Midlands Police as a general purpose and firearms dog, PD Stark is due to enjoy his retirement.
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During his career, Stark and his handler PC Paul Hopley have been involved in dozens of police investigations and helped carry out hundreds of searches for suspects and firearms.
The four legged crime fighter was honoured with a Bravery Award after being beaten and slashed more than 20 times in the 2020 attack, where he refused to let go of the suspect. PC Hopley and Stark have been partners in crime since the beginning, with the pair passing their initial training in 2019 and going on to pass their firearms course in 2021.
Shaved and stitched: PD Stark recovering from the knife attack in 2020
(Image: WMP)
Stark is also a big hit at Crufts, where he will often show off his chasing and detaining skills to the world. Although Stark is retiring, he will remain with PC Hopley. PC Paul Hopley said: “I couldn’t ask for a better dog to be partnered with. Stark has been amazing and it’s been an honour to do this job alongside him.
“We have had many memorable moments over the years and developed such a special bond. Stark is very much part of our family and I look forward to spending even more time with him when I retire in a few months’ time. He will be spoilt rotten!
“Our police dogs are invaluable at protecting the public, fighting crime and making the public smile.”