Pet Owners Cited For Loose Pets

In a recent announcement, the Columbus Police Dept. has revealed that they have filed 332 charges against pet owners in the area for letting their animals run at large either without a leash or other kind of restraining device. Both Alan Knight, the director of the Columbus Department of Recreation and Parks and Jeff Furbee, Columbus city legal adviser to the Police, were shocked that the number was that high. If you have been injured by a loose dog, contact our personal injury lawyers in Columbus today at (877) 288-3241. While many critics of the pet restraint code have begun to question whether the recent inclusion of signage at more than eight city parks are having any real effect in the cities' efforts to crack down on offenders, these signs have very direct wording that includes: Owner shall have animal securely leashed or under direct control at all times. Direct control means the animal will come, sit and stay on command from the owner. However, many owners are also questioning the wording on those signs, stating that the "direct control" component is too vague and it's this vagueness that makes it difficult to enforce the existing pet control laws. Currently, those that break the law can be faced with a maximum $500 fine and a 60-day jail sentence. In the event that an individual is harmed by a dog bite in Columbus, the owner of that animal may then be subjected to a $1,000 file and up to 180 days in jail. In comments recently released by Sgt. Rich Weiner of the Columbus Police Dept., it was stated: "....most, if not all, the charges are filed after someone calls in a complaint." He also added, Officers are aware that the law is on the books". While the city's Recreation and Parks Commission leader, Karla Rothan has said that the increase in signage may result in a small number of people following the law: I believe there have been some behavior changes.... I'm sure people are more tuned in with these things to make sure their dogs are under direct control. Have you or someone you love been the victim in an animal attack? At the law offices of O'Connor, Acciani and Levy, our dog bite attorneys in Columbus have detailed knowledge of our animal restraint laws and can help to investigate your claim to determine if you have sufficient grounds to file a lawsuit claiming for compensation.