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HEROIC POLICE DOG STABBED WHILE CHASING DOWN A FUGITIVE
https://www.express.co.uk/news/natu.....-David-Wardell

I remember this story, from back in 2016. It was local news for me; I live only 20 minutes away from where this happened.

An offender went to stab Finn's handler, Dave, with a 10 inch knife. Finn bravely jumped in front of him, and saved his life.
All while risking his own.
Finn was left in critical condition, with multiple stab wounds to his head and chest.

Thanks to an amazing vet team, Finn's life was saved. He was back on duty only 11 weeks after the incident.
The 16-year-old from London, who cannot be named because of his age, was found guilty of ABH against PC Dave Wardell and criminal damage in relation to PD Finn.
He recieved an 4 month detention sentence, and 4 month community service order.
That was all.

Since the incident, Dave has been campaigning with Finn (now retired from duty) for greater protection to service animals.
They appeared on the show "Britain's Got Talent" earlier this year, with a magical performance, and even made it though to the final. During this live show, Dave said:
"After our first audition aired the Queen stayed up late one night and she signed off on Finn's Law. So on June 8, Saturday next week, Finn's Law becomes a law."


So what is Finn's Law?

Under old UK legislation, attacks on animals are only classed as 'criminal damage' - despite the serious nature of the attack the offence against PD Finn.
Finn’s Law closes a loophole which meant service animals were treated as 'property' - helping the criminals who hurt them dodge more serious charges.
The law is an amendment to the Animal Welfare Act (2006) which gives specific protection to police dogs and horses while on duty.
The new legislation, in force as of today, means causing unnecessary suffering to a service animal is now an offence in England and Wales.
Criminals can no longer claim that they only harmed the animal in 'self defence'.
This change, coupled with plans to increase maximum sentences for ALL animal cruelty offences means offenders could face up to 5 years in prison.

"He has turned such a horrendous event into something so positive, his legacy will never be forgotten by his furry colleagues."

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References of Finn from images on BGT.

Artwork © Dakarai / Bandarai