Man arrested and dogs seized after officer attacked in Barnsley
Warning issued after recent incidents of dog attacks
A man has been arrested in Barnsley following an incident where dogs under his care attacked a council worker and a police officer.
The altercation occurred on 15th April around 3.30pm, when authorities received reports of a worker bitten while attending a property.
The worker suffered injuries to their arm and buttock, leaving him needing hospital treatment.
When officers arrived, it was alleged that the man responsible failed to control the dogs, leading to an officer being bitten, sustaining similar injuries.
The police officer required medical attention and had to leave duty early due to their injuries.
Three dogs, believed to be Dobermans, have been seized and are currently held in police kennels.
A 59-year-old was arrested on suspicion of owning a dangerously out of control dog, resulting in injury, and assault on an emergency service worker.
Chief Inspector Jon Greaves emphasised the importance of safeguarding communities from the risks posed by unmanageable dogs and advised owners to act responsibly.
He remarked, "Seizing a dog is not a decision we take lightly but people’s safety comes first."
Greaves reassured that responsible owners are generally considerate of their pet's welfare, but highlighted the need for improvement among those who fall short.
Guidance and free support for managing dog behaviour are available from Blue Cross and Dogs Trust charities.
The arrested individual has been released on police bail, and inquiries continue.