Owner of Dangerous Dog That Bit Small Dog to Death Fined 6 Million Won in First Trial... Acquitted of Property Damage

A Rottweiler breed known as a representative dangerous dog. Photo by Korea Kennel Federation

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Dong-hoon] A dog owner was fined for not putting a muzzle on a dangerous dog, which led to the death of a small dog during a walk.

On the 26th, Judge Jeong Geum-young of the Criminal Division 3 at the Seoul Western District Court sentenced Mr. A (75), who was tried for property damage and violation of the Animal Protection Act, to a fine of 6 million won. The court found him guilty of violating the Animal Protection Act but not guilty of property damage.

The court stated, "Regarding the violation of the Animal Protection Act, the defendant admitted to the crime and there is corroborating evidence, so guilt is recognized. However, the charge of property damage lacks proof of the crime, so a not guilty verdict is given."

It continued, "The defendant raised the dangerous dog in an environment unsuitable for such a breed, and despite three previous similar incidents, he opened the front door to prepare for walks or took the dog out without a muzzle. There was no consideration for others, which ultimately led to this crime," explaining the sentencing rationale.

Mr. Lee was tried for leaving a Rottweiler unmuzzled in a residential area of Bulgwang-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul, on July 25 last year, which bit and killed a Spitz during a walk and injured its owner. The victim dog owner suffered injuries requiring two weeks of medical treatment after being bitten by the Rottweiler.

At the sentencing hearing held on the 28th of last month, the prosecution requested a six-month prison sentence for Mr. A. The prosecution pointed out, "The defendant has a prior record of causing injury by negligence in a similar case and is currently under probation. This is an unforgivable matter for the victim."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.