Life of Brian: New police dog's paw-fect start to career with GMP

Greater Manchester Police have recently welcomed four new police dogs to the force to help tackle crime across Greater Manchester.

One of the new recruits is Brian. The two-year-old German Shepherd passed an eight-week course on April 26 2024 to become a fully licenced police dog for GMP with his handler PC Brandon Adams, who celebrated six years in the force in March.

The duo wasted no time once operational, with PC Adams and PD Brian working the weekend after passing their course – this proved to be a successful one for the duo.

“Brian got his first job on Sunday (April 28), which was two suspected burglars in Stockport that we believe are responsible for numerous offences,” PC Adams said. “Brian managed to track both of the people with assistance from TVIU (Tactical Vehicle Intercept Unit) and NPAS (National Police Air Service) and they’ve subsequently been charged and remanded to court for a total of thirty offences.”

After a hard day’s work, it’s important for both the handler and dog to enjoy their time at home. Luckily for police dogs, they live with their handlers and can shut off from crime for a period.

You might have noticed this isn’t the first time PC Adams has been operational with a police dog for GMP. He recently worked with PD Tommy, however, due to an injury sustained to his leg, Tommy had to retire earlier this year.

Speaking on Tommy’s retirement, PC Adams said: “Tommy had to retire unfortunately in February this year, as he picked up an injury and due to the injury, we couldn’t continue to work him.

“So, I have now got police dog Brian and Tommy is retired with a couple that live in Oldham.”