Essex Police Unleash New Canine Crime Fighters
Four fierce police dogs—Raven, Max, Freddie, and Denver—have joined Essex Police’s elite K9 unit. Alongside newly qualified handlers PC Liss Johnston and PC Adam Hanbury, these pups are ready to keep the streets safe.
Graduation Day for Heroes on Four Legs
After a gruelling 13-week training course, PC Johnston and PD Raven, PC Hanbury and PD Max, as well as seasoned officers PC Sam Williams with PD Denver and PC Paul Arthey alongside PD Freddie, proudly received their certificates. The ceremony, led by Superintendent Phil Stinger, was attended by family, friends, and colleagues.
Special shout-outs went to puppy walkers Linda Plair and Kim Stacey, who helped raise PDs Denver and Max. Their crucial role in nurturing these crime-busting canines was recognised with certificates and flowers.
Dogs on Duty: From Suspects to Evidence
The newly minted teams wowed the crowd with an action-packed outdoor display. The dogs hunted down suspects, sniffed out crucial evidence, and apprehended armed criminals—all with top-level discipline and control.
Essex’s Dog Section boasts 25 handlers and 46 dogs. Nearly half specialise in sniffing out drugs, explosives, forensic evidence, and digital media devices.
Training Tough Enough for Man’s Best Friend
Course instructor PC Jim Beaird revealed the high standards needed to join this elite squad. “It’s the toughest police course out there,” he said. “The training takes place outside, whatever the weather, and the bond between handler and dog is everything. You live with your dog, and they come home with you every night.”
“We teach obedience, agility, tracking, biting—and when not biting—as well as searching and bonding. Dogs must be bold, confident, and eager to learn. They have skills no human can match: tracking suspects, uncovering vital evidence, and helping to lock up criminals.”
“Handlers must be proactive officers with a real passion for dogs, because this job takes over your life. The only time your dog isn’t with you is when you’re on leave. It’s a huge commitment—for the officer and their family.”
Rising Star: One of Just Ten Female Dog Handlers in 70 Years
PC Liss Johnston, one of only four female dog handlers in the force, was inspired to apply by her former sergeant. Previously a local officer in Rayleigh, she is reportedly only the tenth female handler recruited by Essex Police in seven decades.
“I love dogs and always knew this was where I wanted to be. Raven has been a challenge—she’s very temperamental—but we’ve come through it together,” said PC Johnston. “Being out here with her is a dream come true.”
Superintendent: ‘You Can’t Run From Our Dogs’
Supt Phil Stinger, head of Specialist Operations, praised the team’s vital role in policing. “The Dog Section is essential. The force wouldn’t function as well without these dogs. Even facing large crowds, their discipline shines through,” he said.
“The message to criminals is clear: you can’t run from our dogs. They will track you down and detain you.”
