Sniffer Dog Eli Sniffs Out Two Suspects in Overnight Theft Spree
PD Eli Tracks Down Diesel Theft Suspect
PD Eli, the prowling police dog, put his nose to work early on June 20, 2022. At around 1.20 a.m., Eli sniffed out a man who fled from a vehicle parked near lorries in a layby off the A2 near Harbledown.
Officers found a large diesel bowser in the vehicle and arrested the 32-year-old on suspicion of theft. The suspect was later released on bail as investigations continue.
Maidstone Maserati Chase Ends in Bushes
But Eli wasn’t done yet. Just hours later, at about 5.25 a.m., the dog sniffed out a 34-year-old man hiding in thick bushes in Leeds, Maidstone. The suspect had abandoned a stolen Maserati after a high-speed chase, which ended when police deployed a stinger to stop the car.
The driver now faces multiple charges including theft, reckless driving, failing to stop, and driving under the influence. A 34-year-old passenger was also arrested on suspicion of theft.
Police Praise Canine Teamwork
The luxury car was reportedly stolen from the Thames Valley area. Both suspects were handed over to Thames Valley Police for further action.
PD Eli and others like him are an invaluable asset to kent-police/" title="Kent Police" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Kent Police and truly are part of the team,” said Chief Inspector Craig West. “Because of their incredible sense of smell, no matter how dark or dense a hiding place is, the person will almost certainly be sniffed out in the end.”
Thanks to PD Eli, these suspects didn’t stay hidden for long. The dog’s sharp nose once again proves vital in cracking tough cases on Kent’s streets.