In a strategic collaboration for the Paris Olympics, specialist search dogs from Avon and Somerset Police have been deployed to enhance security measures. PC Richard Martin and Sgt Ben Smith, along with their explosive detection dogs EmmyLou and Hope, joined the French security efforts from 2-14 July.
Officers from various UK police forces are being intermittently assigned to assist French teams over the eight-week Olympic period. This deployment stems partly from the experience and skills honed during the 2012 London Olympics.
PC Martin and Sgt Smith were tasked with supporting the Police Nationale in securing the expansive 51-hectare Olympic Village, which spans Saint-Denis, Ile Saint-Denis, and Saint-Ouen. The village accommodates around 14,000 athletes throughout the Games.
PC Martin described the operation as “an absolutely enormous task,” emphasizing the scale and complexity of the event. Initially, the French teams were skeptical of the British dogs, accustomed to more traditional breeds like Malinois and German Shepherds.
“When we first arrived, our spaniels were almost a laughing stock,” PC Martin recalled. “But by the end of our deployment, the French teams were convinced of their effectiveness, having seen them in action.”
EmmyLou, nearing retirement after nine years of service, and Hope, newly licensed in September 2023, quickly proved their worth. Sgt Smith, relatively new to dog handling, expressed immense pride in Hope’s performance.
The spaniels became beloved figures within the Olympic Village, attracting attention from volunteers and staff alike. “The dogs picked up on the energy and excitement in the village,” Sgt Smith noted, adding that they formed strong bonds with the search teams.
“The search teams would run over, calling their names, and the dogs would eagerly respond,” PC Martin said.
As the Paris Olympics continue, additional UK search dog teams are being deployed to assist French authorities, ensuring the safety of fans and athletes.
