Arrested Development

Arrested Development

Following on from this post.

Yesterday morning I was arrested and handcuffed at home and thrown into a cage in the back of a police van. It was uncomfortable to say the least. I wouldn't have put a dog in that space let alone a human being. I was informed that I was being arrested for assault and being in charge of an out of control dog. I was also informed that they would be taking my dog Rocky into custody. I was assured that it would all be over and done with quickly and that I would return.

I did not exercise my right to have a solicitor present during the taped interview as I suspected that it would have lengthened the whole process considerably getting in touch with a solicitor at a moment's notice to represent me. Besides, I could halt the proceedings at any stage if I felt that the going was too tough. The taped interview lasted approximately 2 hours.

I was locked in a cell for about 3 hours whilst somebody made a decision how to proceed. I could hear Rocky barking the whole time in his cage outside in the yard. It was the same kind of barking I heard him make when he was in the Dog Rescue Centre. More a whining yap. I was powerless to comfort Rocky through his ordeal.

Eventually, I was informed that the assault charge had been dropped and replaced with "Section 4 words/behaviour - fear unlawful violence contrary to The Public Order Act 1986". And "Owner allow dog out of control to cause injury contrary to section 3(1) and (4) of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991".

Rocky couldn't drag me out of there fast enough and dragged me along for about a mile until he felt safe.

I phoned the DG of the Prison Service and he said the last thing he needs is for me to be recalled for owning a dog!

Just on my way to see my probation officer.

Computer is still down at least until the weekend, meanwhile I am using an internet cafe.