The Police watchdog's found an officer was justified in commanding his dog to restrain two young people during an arrest

In February 2021 a Police dog handler arrested three people he alleged were attempting to steal a car in New Plymouth.

Police say two were bitten - after the officer released his dog.

The Independent Police Conduct Authority says one young person required hospital treatment.

But it says it was a necessary and proportionate response in the circumstances, and the arrests were legally justified.