Officers arrest six men with machetes with help of PD Tono

Officers and a dog handler have arrested six men with machetes in Tamworth with the help of PD Tono.

We were called to an address off Marmion Street at 1.35pm on Tuesday (18 October) after a man reported being approached by a group of male youths with weapons who then damaged his car using a house brick.

PC Sarah Haycock, part of the force’s dog support unit, attended the scene and pursued the suspects on foot in the direction of Hamble.

With PD Tono also released to sniff out the suspects, the PC along with fellow officers were able to arrest all six men.

Thankfully, the victim was not injured and did not require medical treatment, though we made sure they were removed to a place of safety.

A 26-year-old man, from Tamworth, was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage to property valued under £5,000 and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place.

An 18-year-old man, of no-fixed-address, a 32-year-old man, from Birmingham, and three men from Tamworth, a 21-year-old, 23-year-old and a 25-year-old, were all arrested on suspicion of affray.

All six men have been released under investigation.

PC Haycock said: “This was just part of the day job for me and PD Tono.

“I’m just pleased that the victim was unhurt and that six men were arrested."

Inspector Dave Kelsall, of the armed response and dog unit, added: “Whilst it is part of the role of our dog support unit to support and deal with greater threats, we should not forget that Sarah helped to manage this threat, whilst handling Tono who is not just a police dog but her much loved daily crew partner who she has to deploy in the face of danger.

“I’m exceptionally proud of Sarah, Tono and the armed response team who demonstrated their bravery and professionalism in this incident and in protecting the local community.”