'It really hurt': Police dog Spike takes down Brighton drug dealer

A Sussex Police spokesman said PC Mark Tully was on the way to walk police dog Spike at about 10.20pm last night (February 19) at East Brighton Park when he noticed a silver Volkswagen Polo which smelled strongly of cannabis.

The vehicle fled the scene and was pursued into nearby Rugby Place, said the spokesman, where the suspect got out and ran.

Spike was ordered to pursue him, chased him down and took him to the floor, said police.

As PC Tully controlled Spike and called for assistance, the suspect managed to run off again, said police, forcing Spike into action once again.

The police dog caught up with the suspect and bit his arm, at which point he pleaded for him to let go.

Learning from the first detainment, PC Tully and Spike kept hold of the man until further units arrived to arrest him.

The police spokesman said the 23-year-old, from Leeds, was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply cannabis, failing to stop when required by a police officer, dangerous driving and resisting a police officer in the execution of their duty.

He remains in custody, said police.