Policeman Sues Force for Denying Use of Autism Assistance Dog

A police officer is suing Hampshire Constabulary for discrimination after being prohibited from bringing his autism assistance dog to work.

Detective Sergeant Matthew Parker, who relies on his dog Koda for support with his autism and mental health conditions, claims he was unfairly treated when his request to bring the dog to work was denied.

Det Sgt Parker informed his superiors that Koda, his "psychiatric assistance" dog, was essential for managing his autism, ADHD, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Despite this, when he brought Koda to work without prior approval, he was instructed by Detective Inspector Alex Hall to leave and return without the dog, an employment tribunal heard.

Parker is now pursuing legal action against the force for disability discrimination, arguing that three other staff members had been permitted to bring assistance dogs to work. During a preliminary hearing, the tribunal granted permission for Parker's case to proceed to a full hearing, where it will be determined whether the force's actions were justified.

The tribunal in Southampton heard that Parker first requested permission to bring Koda to work in December 2021 but was officially told in February 2022 that he could not do so. Despite this refusal, Parker brought Koda to a digital forensic lab, where he was subsequently told to leave.

The tribunal also learned that while two other police officers and a staff member in another team, all of whom had PTSD, were allowed to bring their assistance dogs to work, these instances were considered exceptions rather than standard practice. The full tribunal hearing will be scheduled at a later date.

The Johnson Partnership

(formerley GV Hale) 

01159 419141