Ernest Piotr Kujawski appears at Southampton Magistrates' Court

Ernest Piotr Kujawski slammed police dog, Ernie, between a door leaving him whimpering and yelping in pain, a court heard.

Hampshire Police: Police dog, Ernie

PC Mark Farley and his police dog Ernie rushed to Shirley High Street to attend reports of a car theft at around 12.47am on Wednesday, February 5.

Kujawski, 42, was spotted and suspected of having a weapon.

When the police arrived he fled the scene but Ernie was deployed to stop him.

Kujawski ran into his house and trapped the Mechelse herder between a door injuring his paw.

Kujawski of Mayfield Road appeared before Southampton Magistrates' Court charged with causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.

He was found guilty after not attending a previous court hearing.

PC Mark Farley and PD Ernie

PC Farley called for backup and with the help of a member of the public was able to free the dog.

A police spokesperson said: "Luckily Ernie has recovered well and is still a valuable member of our force."

The duo received a Chief Constable Commendation for “showing courage, resilience, bravery and professionalism in detaining two suspects in a fast-moving, high threat environment”.

PD Ernie's injuries

Kujawski has been given an unpaid work requirement of 100 hours and been ordered to pay £123 in compensation.

PC Mark Farley said: “Ernie did a fantastic job, and he would do so again without hesitation.

“It was by far the most difficult moment as a dog handler for me, putting him in harm’s way is never taken lightly, but we are here to protect the public.

“I am honoured to have received the award, but even more proud to see Ernie getting the recognition he deserves.”