The Dangers of Attack-Trained Dogs in Correctional Facilities
An Unsettling Encounter
In a gripping and harrowing account, journalist Hannah Beckler shares her experience of being bitten by an attack-trained Belgian Malinois while wearing a protective bite suit. This incident serves as an entry point to delve into the use of attack-trained dogs against incarcerated individuals in correctional facilities.
The Intensity of Belgian Malinois and Similar Breeds
Belgian Malinois, Dutch, German, and Czech shepherds are breeds known for their intensity and drive. Originally bred to herd sheep and drive livestock, these dogs now dominate the ranks of military and law-enforcement canines due to their unwavering focus and determination. This intensity, commonly referred to as “drive,” is what makes them effective in pursuits, arrests, and prison control.
The Use of Attack-Trained Dogs in Correctional Facilities
Eight states in the United States, including Virginia, Arizona, Indiana, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Iowa, actively use attack-trained dogs in their correctional facilities. Through meticulous investigation, it was revealed that there were 295 documented bites on incarcerated individuals between 2017 and 2022, with the majority of them occurring in Virginia prisons. The severity of these bites ranged from disfiguring injuries to long-term disabilities.
The Cruel Power of an Attack Dog’s Bite
Powerful Bites and Brutal Force
The bite of an attack-trained dog, especially breeds like the Belgian Malinois, can puncture light sheet metal and exert tremendous pressure due to their strong jaws and muscular physique. Trainers emphasize the need for the volunteer in the bite suit to absorb the momentum of the attack to prevent the dog from causing self-injury. These dogs are trained to bite forcefully and hold on until commanded to release, demonstrating their strength and unwavering commitment to their task.
The Reward System and Relentless Drive
The training process for attack-trained dogs involves conditioning them to respond aggressively to threats. Trainers push these dogs to their limits, using various stimuli to elicit barking, teeth-baring, and biting. The reward for the dog is in the act of biting itself, providing a cathartic release for the pent-up drive and energy. The dogs undergo extensive training in Europe before being imported for patrol-dog competitions and law enforcement purposes.
The Ethical Concerns and Personal Impact
The Ethical Implications
The use of attack-trained dogs in correctional facilities raises important ethical questions. While these dogs serve as a tool for maintaining control and security, the severity of the bites and the potential for long-term harm to incarcerated individuals is worrisome. It prompts a discussion about the appropriate use of force, the potential abuse of power, and the well-being of those who are already serving their sentences.
A Personal Traumatic Experience
Hannah Beckler’s decision to experience an attack while protected in a bite suit sheds light on the traumatic impact of these encounters. Despite the protective gear, the experience left her shaken and affected her perception of large, shepherd-like breeds. This personal account underscores the psychological toll that such encounters can have on individuals, particularly those who have experienced attacks without any safety precautions.
Recommendations for Personal Safety and Institutional Responsibility
Enhancing Safety Measures
To mitigate the risks associated with the use of attack-trained dogs in correctional facilities, it is vital to prioritize the safety of incarcerated individuals. Measures such as rigorous training for handlers, strict adherence to protocols, regular evaluations of the dogs’ behavior, and proper supervision can help prevent excessive force and mitigate injuries.
Transparency and Accountability
Institutional transparency is essential in ensuring the responsible use of attack-trained dogs. Public records should be readily accessible to facilitate oversight and accountability. Comprehensive reporting on incidents and the implementation of strict guidelines for the use of these dogs can contribute to public trust and provide a means of addressing any potential abuses.
Exploring Alternative Methods
While attack-trained dogs have their place in certain law enforcement scenarios, it is crucial to explore alternative methods for handling potentially volatile situations in correctional facilities. Non-lethal tools, de-escalation techniques, and comprehensive training programs for staff can help reduce reliance on dogs as the primary means of control, mitigating the risk of severe injuries to incarcerated individuals.
In Conclusion
The use of attack-trained dogs in correctional facilities presents complex ethical considerations. While these dogs play a role in maintaining security, the severity of the bites and the potential for long-term harm cannot be ignored. Striking a balance between maintaining safety and respecting the well-being of incarcerated individuals requires careful evaluation, transparency, accountability, and a commitment to exploring alternative approaches to manage potentially dangerous situations.
<< photo by Dickens Lin >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
