29/10/2013

Jail Terms Increased For Dog Attacks

The jail term for owners of dogs that kill has been increased to 14 years, under new laws being introduced by the government.

Under the law the jail term for the owner of a dog that injures someone will also be increased to five years, up from the current two.

"The increase in maximum penalty for a dog attack on an assistance dog, such as a guide dog for the blind, reflects the devastating effect such an attack has on the assisted person," Environment Secretary Owen Paterson wrote in a parliamentary statement.

"As now, each of these offences could also be punishable by an unlimited fine instead of, or in addition to, imprisonment."

The new penalties will be put to Parliament during the Lords Committee Stage of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Bill.

(MH/CD)


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