Floyd (a 3 year old Pug cross) and Two Sox (an 11 year old Husky cross). Two Sox and Floyd were acquitted of killing 39 sheep on a property in The Lakes in 2016. Photo: David Baylis
Camera IconFloyd (a 3 year old Pug cross) and Two Sox (an 11 year old Husky cross). Two Sox and Floyd were acquitted of killing 39 sheep on a property in The Lakes in 2016. Photo: David Baylis Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Mundaring Shire president satisfied with council process during dog prosecution case

Sarah BrookesHills Avon Valley Gazette

SHIRE of Mundaring President Cr John Daw yesterday expressed his support for Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Throssell, and Shire staff involved in a recent high-profile dog prosecution case.

A three-day criminal trial in the Perth Magistrates Court between the Shire and Simon Hey ruled on January 30 that lawyers acting on behalf of the Shire were unable to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Mr Hey’s dogs, Two Sox and Floyd, had killed 39 sheep in the Lakes in 2016.

Cr Daw said he was confident Mr Throssell and his staff acted lawfully and with integrity throughout the entire matter.

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“The CEO has provided me with an extensive briefing in regards to this matter and has afforded me and other councillors the opportunity to review the relevant documentation, including the legal advice obtained by the Shire,” he said.

“As a result, I am confident the prosecution process was carried out appropriately.

“Council supports our rangers, who have a very difficult job to do.

“They often face unwarranted and aggressive behaviour from residents who are in breach of the Dog Act.

“Our community depends on our rangers to make our safety a priority.

“Similarly our residents appreciate what the rangers do on our behalf.”

Cr Daw said he acknowledged that some improvements needed to be made to the existing procedures.

“However I am confident that the CEO is taking the appropriate measures to address these,” he said.

“I am also pleased to report that several changes have already been implemented.

“The Shire has hired an independent consultant to review existing procedures pertaining to enforcement of legislation (which local government is responsible for) including matters such as dog attacks.

“The review will consider the way in which evidence is currently collected, the investigation process and enforcement options including prosecution.”

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