Sniffer Dogs
Sniffer dogs patrol tube and train stations all over the UK, with the sole purpose of detecting those in possession of drugs. The police have determined that this is a valid course of action, which will deter people from using drugs and reduce demand - there is absolutely no evidence to support this idea.
Help us stop this intrusive tactic NOW.
Release has made several Freedom of Information requests to police forces throughout the country which show that in over 75% of searches (resulting from a dog sniff) no drugs were found. This is backed by further Australian research.
Release believes that this approach criminalises people disproportionately; it contravenes our right to go about our daily business without unjustified police interference and the considerable costs are a complete waste of taxpayer’s money.
- There is no law which expressly allows the use of sniffer dogs by the police
- These types of operations target users not dealers and incur significant costs. With such poor outcomes this is clearly a waste of public finances.
For these reasons, Release is taking legal action against the British Transport Police (BTP) for breach of human rights, unlawful search and trespass to the person, regarding the use of sniffer dogs to detect drugs. Release Executive Director, Sebastian Saville was stopped and searched by the BTP at Camden Town underground station in June 2008 following a positive indication by a sniffer dog. Mr Saville had no illegal drugs in his possession.
The case is expected to reach the High Court later this year. If Sebastian and Release are successful in their claim, the police will be forced to desist from using sniffer dogs for the detection of drugs. Follow how the press are covering the story here and here.
Release is collecting information on the use of drug detection dogs by the police. If you have had a public encounter with a sniffer dog – whether drugs were found or not – we want to know about it. Please email us or download our sniffer dog info card.
Based on your experiences, and information obtained through the Freedom of Information Act, we are actively challenging the practice of using sniffer dogs. Help us stop this intrusive tactic NOW.