Corrections Scoops Top Dog Awards

Thursday 16 May 2013

Corrections Scoops Top Dog Awards

Corrections’ drug detector dogs and their handlers have taken out the top two prizes in the National Detector Dog Championships held at Trentham this week.

Christchurch Dog Handler Barry Nelsen and Ollie won first prize, while Carol Robertson and Flash from Auckland claimed second prize.

(Photo by Dept of Corrections)

The two Corrections teams were competing in the narcotic detection section of the competition against four teams from New Zealand Police and Customs from around the country.

Corrections’ National Manager Detector Dog Services John Gallagher said the awards were competitive and represented the very best in the country’s drug detection dogs.

(Photo by Dept of Corrections)

“The two wins reflect the tough challenges Corrections’ handlers and their dogs face on the job every day.

“The dogs are trained to recognise and seek out even the smallest quantities of various drugs and other contraband items to stop them entering our prisons.

“This gives a high level of assurance to the public in our commitment to keeping our prisons safe and free of contraband. It also assists with out efforts to reduce reoffending,” he said.

The dogs inspect prisoner property and cells as well as searching visitors, their vehicles, and property posted or couriered into New Zealand’s prisons.

Each dog in the competition was assessed for detection capability, agility, obedience and searching.

It is the second time Barry and Carol have been awarded top prizes in the champs: in 2011 Barry and Ollie won the top prize, with Carol and Flash coming third.

Carol also represents Corrections in the successful Dog Squad television programme.

ENDS

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