Bradford Man Receives Prison Sentence for Sustained Assault on Police Dog and Officer
A violent offender from Bradford has been handed a custodial sentence after launching a sustained attack on a police officer and her canine partner during an arrest attempt in West Yorkshire. James Strain, 38, of Holme Bank Close, Bradford, was found guilty of assault with intent to resist arrest and causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal following the disturbing incident in Bingley town centre.
Sustained Violence Against Officer and Canine Partner
The court heard how PC Roxy Cramp and her police dog Zero responded to reports of an individual behaving aggressively and making threats outside a local shop on November 28, 2025. As PC Cramp attempted to handcuff Strain, he became physically violent, kicking the officer and spitting at her during the struggle. The situation escalated further when Strain attempted to trip the officer with his leg, prompting her to deploy PD Zero to help detain him.
Despite the police dog's intervention, Strain continued his violent behaviour, repeatedly kicking Zero in the head and chest area. The brave canine partner endured multiple blows while helping to restrain the offender until additional police support arrived at the scene. The sustained nature of the attack highlighted the dangers faced by both human officers and their animal counterparts in the line of duty.
Legal Proceedings Under Finn's Law Legislation
Strain appeared before Leeds Magistrates' Court on January 19, where he was convicted under Finn's Law legislation. This important legal framework, named after Hertfordshire Police Dog Finn who was seriously injured while apprehending a suspect in 2016, came into effect in 2019 and specifically prevents those who attack or injure service animals from claiming self-defence as a justification for their actions.
The court heard detailed evidence about the nature of the assault before sentencing Strain to 10 weeks imprisonment. This outcome demonstrates the judicial system's recognition of the seriousness of attacks on service animals and reinforces the legal protections available to police dogs and their handlers across England and Wales.
Police Response and Animal Welfare Commitment
Following the sentencing, Chief Inspector James Farrar, head of West Yorkshire Police's Dog Unit, issued a strong statement condemning the attack. He emphasised that such behaviour towards officers and their working animals is completely unacceptable and welcomed the custodial sentence imposed on Strain.
"We take the welfare of our working animals extremely seriously and, as with our officers, none of them deserve to be assaulted in the line of duty," stated Chief Inspector Farrar. "Thankfully PD Zero wasn't seriously injured and continues to help keep communities safe with her unwavering loyalty and bravery."
The police force reiterated its commitment to protecting both human officers and their canine partners, highlighting the vital role police dogs play in maintaining public safety and supporting law enforcement operations across West Yorkshire communities.
Broader Implications for Service Animal Protection
This case serves as a significant reminder of the legal protections now afforded to service animals under Finn's Law and the serious consequences facing those who assault police dogs or other working animals. The legislation represents a crucial step forward in recognising the valuable contribution these animals make to public safety and ensuring appropriate legal recourse when they are targeted during their duties.
Police dog units across the country continue to emphasise the importance of these legal protections while highlighting the bravery and dedication shown by canine officers like PD Zero, who despite facing violent resistance, continue to perform their duties with professional commitment and courage.
