Published on 24th November 2015
Cheltenham Borough Council has successfully prosecuted Gareth Wright of Somergate Road, Cheltenham, for failing to pick up dog faeces in Springfield Park.
On 23 January 2015 whilst monitoring dog control in the park, a community protection officer witnessed Mr Wright’s dog foul on the grass which he made no attempt to clear up.
After initially giving a false address, Mr Wright was given a fixed penalty notice of £80 for the dog fouling offence, which would have been reduced to £50 if paid within 10 days. However, he made no attempt to pay the penalty which left the council with no other choice than to prosecute at court.
Mr Wright did not attend court and was found guilty in his absence of failing to remove dog faeces from designated land and was fined £220 for the offence. He was also ordered to pay £100 costs and victim surcharge of £22. The court did not issue a separate penalty for giving a false address.
Carol Cross, community protection officer, said: “We are repeatedly asked to deal with dog fouling issues, and the community are keen for us to catch the people responsible. This prosecution shows that where there is evidence the council will issue fixed penalty notices and where appropriate pursue the matter through the courts.
“Keeping Cheltenham’s streets and green spaces clear of dog fouling is important to residents and the council appeal to residents and dog walkers to help deal with irresponsible dog owners. The type of evidence they need includes a description of dog and the person walking it, the location, date and time of the incident. This allows the team to target its resource in order to apprehend offenders.”
Councillor Andy McKinlay, cabinet member for development and safety, added: “The council will continue to pursue irresponsible dog owners who fail to clean up after their dogs.
“Dog fouling presents a significant health risk particularly to children.
“This latest prosecution should send a clear message that the council will always take enforcement action where evidence is available to do so."
For more information on dog fouling and how to report it visit the council’s website.
For press enquiries contact: Kelly Carter, communications officer, telephone 01242 01242 775050, email [email protected]
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