Monday, July 8, 2013

Sheffield dog owner fined for failure to clean up garden

UNITED KINGDOM -- A nuisance neighbour who let piles of dog mess build up in his back garden in Sheffield has been slapped with a fine.

Sheffield Council’s environmental health team hauled Michael Killick before the courts after he ignored repeated warnings to clean up after his pet.

Killick, aged 31, received a number of visits to his house on Penrith Road, Southey Green, earlier this year after complaints from nearby residents.

Besides the "unbearable smell", what about concern about the dog
not being provided with "humane living conditions"?

He was ordered to ensure the outside exercise area put in place for his dog was cleaned regularly.
However, instead he continually allowed piles of feces to accumulate in the back yard, causing an unbearable smell and potential health risk for neighbours on either side.

The city’s environmental protection service brought Killick before Sheffield Magistrates’ Court last month, where he was prosecuted for failing to comply with an abatement notice.

Council bosses hope this will serve as a warning that it takes environmental crime seriously.

Coun Jack Scott, council cabinet member for environment, recycling and Streetscene, said:
“Following complaints from his neighbours and despite several warnings from our officers, Killick refused to take any action to deal with the mess on his property and so we took legal action.

“I am pleased the court took this matter seriously and handed out a penalty.

“This sends a strong message to all those who spoil their neighbours’ everyday lives and also those who keep their animals in such poor conditions. We will continue this sort of tough action so that everyone in Sheffield can live in a pleasant and safe community.”

Killick was fined £200 and ordered to pay £375 costs and a £20 victim surcharge.

(The Star - July 6, 2013)