Joel Simons: Man charged after officer, dog allegedly attacked in Cranbourne South

A police dog injured on the job remains in vet care, while his alleged attacker has faced court.

A Melbourne man has faced court accused of attacking a police dog and his handler after they were called to investigate reports of a man breaking into cars.

Joel Simons, 35, appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday on charges including assault of an emergency worker, arson and intentionally causing injury.

Police say he is expected to face further charges stemming from the injuries sustained by police dog Duke, allegedly caused by Mr Simons.

The dog squad leading senior constable was called to investigate allegedly suspicious activity on Edgar Ave in Cranbourne South about 6.30am on Sunday.

Shortly after they arrived at the scene, Mr Simmons is accused of hitting the officer over the head before a “struggle” between the pair broke out.

Police say Duke was deployed, with the alleged offender bitten on the leg before attempting to flee in a stolen car.

Duke was allegedly dragged alongside the vehicle before letting go.

Mr Simons was arrested at a home in Kilsyth the following day, and police discovered the alleged getaway vehicle — a $30,000 Toyota Corolla — burnt out in Lang Lang.

The officer was taken to hospital and has since been released, while Duke was taken to a vet where he remained on Tuesday.

In court, Mr Simons did not apply for bail and was remanded into custody by Magistrate Donna Bakos, ahead of his next court appearance in December.