Illegal dog breeding in Gaume: farmer assaults police officers during seizure
A farmer from Chiny was breeding more than forty dogs without authorisation. During an operation in May 2023, he threw waste water at officers, blocked their vehicles and threatened them with a pitchfork. The prosecution is seeking one year in prison.
Illegal dog breeding in Gaume: farmer assaults police officers during seizure
A sexagenarian agricultural operator from Chiny was tried in Neufchâteau for maintaining an unlicenced dog breeding operation and for violently obstructing officials who came to seize the animals, according to DHnet.
The inspection operation took place in May 2023. The teams deployed—police officers, animal welfare specialists and representatives of the public prosecutor's office—discovered approximately forty dogs on site being kept in an insanitary environment. The animals lacked water, were undernourished and poorly socialised. One of them had eye lesions. The veterinarian's assessment revealed a lack of medical attention.
Faced with the officers, the owner adopted a hostile approach. He sprayed the staff with contaminated water, obstructed the departure of the service vehicles, concealed certain animals and displayed a gardening tool in a threatening manner. He verbally abused a female officer on duty.
The individual had originally held a licence for a breeding operation limited to two litters per year. Thirteen births were recorded during the period in question, resulting in the withdrawal of his permit. He nevertheless continued his activity. He is also accused of having forged two dog identification documents.
At the hearing, the defendant denied any wrongdoing. Magistrate Léa Clarinval highlighted his refusal to acknowledge his faults and his criminal history. The public prosecutor argued for twelve months' imprisonment, a fine of 8,000 euros and the seizure of 66,800 euros in presumed profits.
Me Sarah Devaux, counsel for the defence, argued that her fees of 150 euros per animal did not constitute a profitable activity. She also contended that the licence withdrawal notice had not reached him. She requested acquittal or, failing that, a sentence to community service.
The tribunal's decision is expected on 4 August.
Source: DHnet