Former Police dog bear, crime-fighting canine of Rotherham, passes away

The criminal-catching efforts of German shepherd Bear were often featured on the force’s social media channels.

And the trusted four-legged officer was described as a valuable asset in tracking missing people and apprehending offenders.

South Yorkshire Police paid tribute to the dog this week following its death.

In January 2020, Bear chased a wanted man from Eastwood — cornering him in the toilets at Tesco on Drummond Street until he was arrested.

But later that year, the animal failed to pass his annual licence test, which is required to ensure dogs and handlers continue to display the correct skills.

Bear retired — but continued to live with his owner PC Matt Aris, his family, pets and police dogs Luna and Dexter.

PC Aris said: “I am forever grateful to Bear for his service and the protection he offered me while at work and I wanted to ensure his retirement was everything he deserved.

“His retirement was not as long as we hoped for and we unfortunately had to make the hard decision to have Bear put to sleep, which broke all our hearts.

“He lived his best retirement, long walks, swimming which he loved in summer, and cuddles by the fire in winter. He has left a huge hole in mine and my family’s hearts.”

A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police said: “Our dogs are a huge part of our policing family. We thank Bear for his public service.”