Police dog Roxy leads officers to the door of suspected Sunderland bike thief

Shortly before 3am on Saturday, November 7, Northumbria Police officers received a report of a burglary at an address on South Hill Crescent, opposite Burn Park and off New Durham Road.

The occupant had been woken up by the sound of an intruder downstairs and after contacting police, she learnt that a bicycle had been stolen following a messy search.

With the offender nowhere to be seen, Police Dog Roxy had a look around and quickly realised something smelled suspicious.

The three-year-old Belgian Malinois picked up a trail and led officers to the front door of a house on nearby Western Hill.

The surprised occupant was subsequently placed under arrest and officers located a bicycle inside which matched the description of the stolen item.

The 37-year-old man has since been charged with burglary and is due to appear before the courts.

Chief Inspector Sam Rennison said: “This was yet another case that highlights the crucial role that our Dog Section plays within the force.

“When officers arrived at the premises, it was clear that an intruder had carried out a messy search – but upon first glance it was unclear if anything evidence-wise had been left at the scene.

“But PD Roxy was more than happy to help and quickly picked up a scent.

"She then guided her brilliant handler across the road and directly to the front door of another house on a nearby street.

“That allowed officers to locate the suspected stolen bike and swiftly bring a suspect into custody.

“I know PD Roxy will have received had a few extra treats after her shift, and I’d like to thank everyone who responded to this incident – it was a truly fantastic piece of teamwork.”

If you see anything suspicious in your area, contact us via the Tell Us Something page of the force’s website or by calling 101. In an emergency or if a crime is happening, always ring 999.

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