26 August 2023 , 21:02
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Owners of dangerous dogs are being spared jail by the courts, figures reveal.
Freedom of Information requests show nearly 400 were found guilty of dangerous dog offences in the last five years, but prison sentences were handed down to just 48 of them. Nearly half – 174 offenders – were given a community or suspended sentence, and just 90 got a fine or conditional charge.
The soft penalties come despite a worrying surge in lethal dog attacks logged by police since 2017. Last year saw 22,000 reported injuries caused by out-of-control dogs – 72% more than in 2018.
(Getty Images/iStockphoto)Our canine population grew by just 15% in that time, suggesting reported attacks have increased at twice the rate of the number of new pet dogs. Around 8,655 people were admitted to hospital with bite wounds in 2022 and 2,925 patients needed urgent reconstructive surgery.
Nearly 3,500 hounds were seized across 33 police force areas last year alone. Campaigners have repeatedly called for tougher treatment for owners.
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