By Doncaster police dog and handler win award for bravery
A police dog and his handler were praised for their bravery following a Doncaster incident that occurred last month.
PD Benson and his handler, PC Terry Davidson, have been dedicated to their work and achieved a lot over the past few years.
They were both recently presented with a Good Work Minute award by Operational Support Unit’s Chief Inspector Darren Starkey for their resilience in apprehending a domestic violence offender.
On Sunday 19 September, the duo visited Carr Hill in Balby to arrest a 31-year-old man who was destroying a property.
However, before they arrived, the culprit fled and had to be tracked by Benson to Great Central Avenue.
The man was armed with a glass bottle.
PC Terry Davidson said: “Once PD Benson had located the man, I engaged in conversation and asked him to put the glass bottle down, or explained I would have to release PD Benson.
“The man refused and became un-cooperative and attempted to run away.
“The man was in the company of a friend who released a ‘Pit Bull’ type of dog from a nearby address.
“The dog immediately started to attack PD Benson.
“PD Benson received cuts to his face and muzzle area from the dog but despite being attacked and suffering pain, he did not lose focus of his task.”
The suspect’s friend later called his dog back so that Benson could do his job.
The wanted man was eventually caught and arrested.
Chief Inspector Darren Starkey, who presented the award, said: “This incident shows the lengths that some people will go to, to escape the police.
“PD Benson demonstrated courage and tenacity throughout the incident and despite the injuries he received, he never lost focus of his task to protect his handler and apprehend the suspect.
“It is a privilege to present the pair with a Good Work Minute and acknowledge their great teamwork and bond.
“Great work and well done both of you.”
PC Davidson added: “Me and PD Benson have been paired together for the past four months.
“Our working relationship got off to a great start and our bond has gone from strength to strength.
“I have been a police officer for eight years and it’s great to know I have PD Benson by my side in challenging situations.
“He works hard protecting myself and the communities of South Yorkshire.”
