Doocey calls for more police dog protection

• Published date: 10 December 2020

“Like many New Zealanders, I am outraged by the recent shooting of a police dog in the line of duty (at Tangowahine) in Northland, leaving the police dog critically injured,” he said.

“The current penalty for injuring or killing a police dog in this country is two years’ jail or a fine of up to $15,000, or both. This is too lenient. In countries and territories like the United States, Canada and South Australia, the penalties for killing a police dog are between five and 10 years’ imprisonment.

“Many people I speak to want greater deterrents put in place here in New Zealand to protect the loyal police dogs who work hard to keep us safe.”

The Waimakariri MP said he had drafted a Member’s Bill, the Policing (Killing or Injuring Police Dogs) Amendment Bill, that would provide a greater deterrent and bring New Zealand’s laws into line with those of other countries.

“If the government...