Royal Military Police to Police Dog Handler
We caught up with Neal, former Royal Military Police and now police dog handler in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Constabulary about the transition from the military to the Constabulary.
What is your military background?
I served for 9 years in the Royal Military Police (RMP), serving in Northern Ireland in 92-94. Performing specialist duties including Arctic warfare training in Norway, close protection operations, and served as an instructor at the Royal Military Police Training School.
What sparked your interest in the police?
It was a busman’s holiday from Royal Military Police to Ministry of Defence Police to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary. My family friend was a dog handler when I was a kid and I looked up to him.
Why Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary?
It was, at the time, known as one of the best forces to join and was more difficult to be accepted to join.
What’s your current role?
Police Dog Handler. As you can imagine I love every working day. From Firearms Support to searching for missing persons, no day is the same. I look after two dogs – PD Eris a Belgium Malinois and PD Laurie, a Sproker Spaniel. Eris is six years old and a firearms support dog and supports Counter Terrorist Firearms Support Officer’s (CTFSO) and ARVs at firearms incidents as a non lethal option. Laurie is six years old and is a victim recovery dog – he searches for blood, bloodied weapons and bodies of victims.
What do Veterans bring to roles in the police?
Steadfastness and knowing that you’ve got my back and I’ve got yours, whatever the situation we find ourselves in. Plus, a willingness to get the job done.
What do you most appreciate about being in the police, versus what you had in the military?
Going home at the end of duty, getting paid overtime and working a regular shift pattern.
What advice would you give to current ‘service’ leavers?
Put you and your family first. Without them no job is worth the money. But what a job the police is. I’ve nearly done my colour service and will need you to take up where previous veterans have served.