A police dog is on the mend after being injured by a machete during the raid of an illegal gambling operation near Bathurst Street and Finch Avenue West on Nov. 23. 

Lonca, a two-year-old German shepherd, was aiding officers in the execution of a search warrant at a Senlac Road and Churchill Avenue home, when one of the assailants attempted to flee the scene. That’s when Lonca put her training to work and pursued the evading suspect.  

According to Toronto Police Service Det.-Sgt. Norm Proctor, police found that the home was associated with the people involved in an illegal gambling establishment, and search warrants were put into motion.

“When they executed the warrant of the house, a fellow ran out the side door wielding a machete, and Lonca went after him,” explained Proctor. 

When the individual ignored any commands to drop the machete, Proctor said Lonca engaged him.

“He took a few chops at [Lonca], causing him cuts around his mouth and leg,” he added.  

With injuries sustained to his neck, Lonca was rushed to a nearby emergency veterinary hospital where he received several stitches to close his wounds.  

A 56-year-old Toronto man is now facing three criminal charges, including the possession of a dangerous weapon as well as wounding an animal. 

Two other Toronto men are both being charged in relation to keeping an illegal gaming/gambling house and possession of proceeds of crime. 

Lonca is healing nicely, and the outpouring of concern from the community has been substantial. 

“I believe Lonca is doing very well,” said Proctor.  “He got some stitches and what not, but he seems good.” 

The canine crime fighter is expected to make a full recovery and was to be back to work within a week.