Police dog who survived machete attack retires

A police dog who survived a machete attack and won a bravery award has retired after six years on the job.

Stark, a German shepherd, was hit and slashed more than 20 times with a machete while police were responding to reports of a break-in in 2020.

PC Paul Hopley, who has been Stark's handler for the whole of his six-year career, is also due to retire this year and the dog will stay with him.

"Stark is very much part of our family and I look forward to spending even more time with him when I retire," PC Hopley said.

"He will be spoilt rotten!"

Stark was attacked in November 2020 when police went to allotments in Handsworth, Birmingham, after reports of a break-in.

He kept hold of the suspect despite being attacked.

A 17-year-old boy was later sentenced to a detention order over the incident.

Stark and PC Hopley were given an outstanding bravery award in 2021 by Thin Blue Paw, a charity for police dogs, to mark their courage during the attack.

West Midlands Police said Stark returned to work a few months after being injured and found a wanted man on his first shift back.

"I couldn't ask for a better dog to be partnered with," PC Hopley said.

"We have had many memorable moments over the years and developed such a special bond."

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