New Law Shields Police Dogs and Horses from Attackers
From today, people who attack police animals can’t claim self-defence under a fresh UK law. Known as Finn’s Law, this new legislation crackdowns on assaults against service animals, including police dogs and horses.
What is Finn’s Law?
The law is named after Finn, a heroic German shepherd police dog who was savagely stabbed while protecting his handler from a knife-wielding suspect. Despite Finn’s serious injuries, only criminal damage charges could be brought against the attacker—until now.
Stronger Protection for Service Animals
Finn’s Law, officially called the Animal Welfare (Service Animals) Bill, stops offenders from using self-defence as an excuse when attacking service animals. The government is also planning to ramp up maximum jail terms for animal cruelty to five years.
- Over 100 service animals have been harmed since 2012
- Abuse ranges from stabbing/" title="Stabbing" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">stabbing and beating with iron bars to being hit by cars
Quotes from Campaigners and Officials
Michael Gove, Environment Secretary: “This law is about giving our service animals the protection they deserve as they dedicate their lives to keeping us safe. I am committed to making the UK the best place in the world for the care and protection of animals.”
PC David Wardell, Handler of Finn: “The last two-and-a-half years have been quite a journey of discovery for Finn and me. We had to bring change to protect our incredible service animals in law. The campaign was positive and it was amazing to see thousands backing us.”
Sir Oliver Heald, MP: “What began as my Ten Minute Rule Bill 18 months ago gained overwhelming support. From today, service animals and their handlers receive the legal recognition they deserve. Huge thanks to the campaign team and, above all, to PC Wardell and Finn.”
Finn’s Law is a landmark win for police dogs and horses risking everything to keep Brits safe.
