A former family pet is embracing a new lease of life as a newly qualified police dog.
PD Riddick, an 18‑month‑old Belgian Malinois cross, has just completed 13 weeks of intensive training and is now on active patrol with experienced handler PC Chris Duffy.
Riddick was recruited last year from a specialist breeder and trainer in the West Midlands after his owners were forced to give him up.
After being assessed by expert trainers at Nottinghamshire Police, he was selected for enhanced training and paired with PC Duffy, whose previous dog Reno retired in December.
Like all general‑purpose dogs, Riddick is trained to search for people and property, to track over ground, to detain people using force, and to deploy in public order incidents.
PC Duffy said:
“Riddick has shown himself to be very good at criminal work – the chasing and running around – and has also done very well at building searches.
“He’s only a young dog, but he’s really got the potential to be a fantastic all‑rounder.
“All in all, I’m just really pleased we were able to give him this opportunity to put all his natural skills and instincts to such good use.
“As time goes on, I’m looking forward to developing our partnership further so we can best serve the public.”
