A pair of police officers were mauled by a dog after the owner set it on them before raining down punches leading to punctures and lacerations during an arrest.

PC Joshua Williams and Emma Gray were responding to a report of a domestic incident in Blyth last January in the early hours.

On arriving at the scene, Sean Bell called on his large Staffordshire bull terrier, ordering it to “get them.”

The dog then ferociously attacked PC Gray and PC Williams, causing multiple puncture wounds and lacerations.

The 37-year-old also rained down punches on officers as they tried to place him in handcuffs, all while continuing to encourage his dog to attack them.

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Keeping hold of the man, the officers made efforts to fend off the attack by kicking the dog away, but the attack was relentless.

Despite the significant injuries, they continued to receive, the officers persevered and eventually managed to arrest Bell with help from backup, while the dog was detained by members of the force’s dog unit.

Both PCs Williams and Gray attended hospital and were required to have tetanus shots.

PC Gray was also prescribed morphine for her injuries and has lasting nerve damage as a result of the ordeal.

Both officers continue to be supported, owing to the traumatic nature of the attack.

Bell, of Banbury Road, Kenton, was sentenced to eight years and six months in prison.

Both officers have been nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards 2023.

Northern Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Sam Rennison, praised the actions of the officers involved.

She said: “I am overwhelmed by the bravery PCs Joshua Williams and Emma Gray demonstrated in the face of such shocking violence.

“The officers, staff and volunteers who proudly pull on their Northumbria Police uniform every day, do so because they want to keep people safe and protect our communities.

“Sean Bell’s behaviour was completely unacceptable. As a force filled with animal lovers, it was extremely distressing to see a dog used in such a way to attack those only trying to do their jobs.

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“I would like to commend the ongoing bravery of the PCs Williams and Gray, who both swiftly returned to work, continuing their commitment to serve their communities.

“They are a credit to themselves, Northumbria Police and their communities.

“As a force, we are extremely proud of them and they thoroughly deserve the recognition they are receiving.”