A serving police officer has pleaded not guilty to being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control that injured another person.
PC Paul Youll, 41, of Cleveland Police, appeared at South Tyneside Magistrates' Court last week. The fact he is still serving disqualifies a more local court from dealing with the matter.
It is alleged that the veteran dog handler was in charge of Police Dog Ilko, which was dangerously out of control near to Ormesby Stables, Ormesby Hall on the evening of 6th June 2016. Whilst out of control PD Ilko is said to have caused injury to Jonathan Taylor, contrary to section 3(1) of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.
Reports from the time indicate that Mr Taylor suffered bite puncture marks to his arm and upper body. He was treated for his injuries at James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough.
Following the incident PD Ilko was removed from duties and has subsequently been put to sleep.
Magistrates adjourned the case until Wednesday, 14th March at Newcastle Crown Court. PC Youll was granted unconditional bail until the next hearing.
This is a very interesting case. Police dogs are trained to be intimidating and act aggressively, which would normally be considered aggravating features of this offence. That said, there is little doubt that PC Youll is a very experienced and competent dog handler, who would have been trying his absolute best to work PD Ilko in a safe and controlled manner.
We will be following developments in this case closely.
Update (19/5/2019): You can now read the eventual conclusion of this case.
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