Police search dogs to be trained to sniff out drugs connected with drink spiking

A pilot initiative which sees specialist dogs being trained to identify drugs commonly associated with drink spiking offences is underway.

The project is being conducted by Thames Valley Police and Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Joint Operations Unit.

Search dogs can detect a range of items such as cash, explosives, and sim cards. 

Now, PD Atlas and PD Major, the force’s drugs specialists, are being trained to detect drugs that are most commonly associated with drink spiking offences.

If successful, they will patrol the streets with officers to detect and intercept those looking to cause harm.

Detective Superintendent Jon Capps, head of rape and sexual offences for Thames Valley Police, said: “This is a relatively new tactic that we are developing each time our dogs conduct training or go out and about.

“PDs Atlas and Major often join Project Vigilant deployments, where uniformed and plain clothed officers carry out patrols in areas outside nightclubs, bars and pubs, to identify people who may be displaying signs of predatory behaviour.

“Together, they target and disrupt those in the area looking to cause harm, so that everyone can enjoy their night out safely.

“These dogs are proving popular with those on a night out but they are just one tool in our approach to tackling drink spiking and violence against women and girls.

“From our investigative and intelligence teams through to our frontline officers and local partners, including venues and councils, we are all committed to maintaining safe spaces for all those enjoying a night out, pursuing and preventing those who choose to commit offences and working together to protect our communities.”