The German Shepherd suffered life-threatening injuries in 2016 after stepping in to protect PC Dave Wardell during a knife attack in Stevenage.
Though both were wounded, PC Wardell later said he believed Finn’s bravery prevented him from being more seriously harmed.
Fundraising campaign
The 80kg statue was funded through a £40,000 public fundraising campaign led by the Thin Blue Paw Foundation, reaching its goal in just 72 hours.
“It was incredibly humbling to learn the foundation wanted to create a memorial for Finn,” said Mr Wardell. “The response showed just how many people were moved by his story.”
Following the attack, Mr Wardell successfully campaigned for stronger legal protections for service animals. Finn’s Law was passed in 2019, recognising their unique role and ensuring tougher penalties for those who harm them.
RIP Finn
Finn briefly returned to work after recovering, before retiring and later passing away in 2023, at the age of 14. The statue was unveiled on the second anniversary of his death.
The foundation hopes the memorial will become a lasting tribute to all police dogs, past and present.
