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by pltm
(PLTM) - Acting Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) St. Clair Amory has issued a warning to residents that they can be charged for the damages caused by their pets and animals.
His remarks come following a notable rise in dog and other animal attacks in the territory.
Addressing the matter via a statement, the Acting Deputy Commissioner said the onus is on animal owners to register and secure their animals in their yard spaces.
“Owners will be charged criminally for any attacks or damage to property as a result of their unrestrained animals. Similarly, persons found to be intentionally harming or setting poison out to harm or kill animals can also be charged and prosecuted under the Protection of Animals Act, Cap 94, sec 3 (1) (a) for cruelty to an animal,” he said.
The statement informed that last week, “three roaming pit bulls reportedly destroyed pieces of outdoor furniture, and attempted to enter the home of a resident in the Chalwell Estate area, while he was at home. On the same day in Long Look, a man showed officers the remains of his dead chickens after his neighbour’s four dogs had entered his property.”
The statement added, “Earlier in April, a woman was hospitalised after she was attacked by two dogs while walking in the Belmont Estate area. The owner of a goat herd reported that four of his goats were met decapitated in his front yard after admitting that his goats have been jumping the pen and entering his neighbour’s yard.”
