The dogs died at the police headquarters at Sherwood Lodge

A police officer is to face prosecution over the deaths of two police dogs in Nottinghamshire, BBC News has learned.

The German shepherd dogs were found dead in a private vehicle outside Nottinghamshire Police's headquarters on 30 June.

Legal proceedings will be brought against an officer for allegedly causing unnecessary suffering to the animals, the RSPCA confirmed.

Nottinghamshire Police confirmed the officer has been suspended.

A police spokesperson said: "Following a review of the circumstances into the deaths of two police dogs, Nottinghamshire Police has taken the decision to suspend the police officer involved.

"An internal inquiry is also continuing."

The Met Office said it reached 28.1C (82.5F) in Nottingham on 30 June.

The RSPCA has said the force reported the incident to them on the day it happened and had co-operated with the charity in the investigation.

Anyone convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal could face up to six months in prison and a £20,000 fine.