Surrey RCMP review police dog arrest

The RCMP is reviewing the arrest of a 16-year-old boy from North Surrey who was apparently mauled in the face by a police dog during his arrest.

According to reports the boy was hospitalized with deep gashes to his face sustained during his arrest. The boy's parents told CTV News they are outraged over the arrest, and have hired a lawyer for a potential lawsuit.

RCMP have only said boy was one of two suspects chased by police following a break-in at a North Surrey gas station and that a police dog was used in the arrests.

Sgt. Peter Thiessen says there will be a full review of the actions of the police dog and its handler in making the arrest, but warns people should think twice before attempting to flee from police.   

"If you are fleeing a crime scene and then there is a level of resistance to the police service dog, certainly things are going to be inflamed. There is a greater chance of injury to the suspect, to the police service dog, to the handler and the public," said Thiessen.

The gas station reported 40 energy drinks were stolen in the break-in.

The review comes just days after a Vancouver man launched a lawsuit against Vancouver police after his leg was apparently ripped open during his arrest on the Downtown Eastside earlier this month.

According to the Pivot Legal Society, dog bites comprise half the injuries reported by municipal police in British Columbia during arrests.