KIMBERLEY LOCALS RALLY TO KEEP POPULAR POLICE DOG HANK IN REGION

A popular police dog has received an outpouring of support from residents in West Australia’s Kimberley amid concerns for its future in the remote region.

Belgian Shepherd Hank and his handler, Senior Constable Ben Cartmill, arrived in the far north in 2019 in a bid to address a spike in crime.

The pair quickly became favourites among locals for their role in a number of important police operations across the region detecting drugs and tracking down suspects.

But Hank’s future in the Kimberley has become unclear and residents are worried that if he leaves they will lose a valuable asset and a reassuring sign of law and order.

Uncertain future for canine unit 

The ABC understands Hank has been recalled to Perth indefinitely, with canine units to be flown up on an as-needs basis.

WA Police has been contacted for comment.

Broome resident Alex Crawford started an online poll that has received more than 300 votes in support of Hank.

“Anything the dog has been associated with has been terribly positive policing so I think he’s a really good thing for the town,” she said.

Ms Crawford called on WA Police to establish a permanent canine unit in the region.

Over several years, Hank has become a comforting sign for a community that has struggled with ongoing criminal behaviour.

Liberal Party MP Neil Thomson has vowed to take up the issue as the new member for the Mining and Pastoral Region.

“It’s sad to see and I hope that we are getting a replacement if Hank is leaving, but we can’t afford to see any reduction in our crime-fighting efforts in the region,” he said.