Co Antrim dog owner sentenced following Staffordshire attack on young male

A County Antrim man has received a suspended custodial sentence and fine after his dog attacked a young male in a serious incident that took place in Ballyclare last year.

Robert Dowie, of Rashee Road, Ballyclare, was prosecuted by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council under the Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1983 (as amended).

The charges stemmed from an attack by a Staffordshire Bull Terrier-type dog, which left the victim with puncture wounds to his leg. The incident occurred on 29 August 2024 on Rashee Road.

Following an investigation by the Council’s Enforcement Officers, the case was brought before Laganside Magistrates’ Court, where Mr Dowie was found guilty and sentenced on 17 June 2025.

In addition to the dog attack offence, Mr Dowie was also charged with breaching control conditions attached to his dog licence.

As a result, the court imposed a three-month custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months. Mr Dowie was also:

• Fined £200

• Ordered to pay £200 towards Council investigation costs

• Required to pay a £15 offender levy

• Given 16 weeks to make full payment

The Council has reiterated its commitment to public safety and the enforcement of dog control laws.

A spokesperson for Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council stated:

“The Council places a high priority on enforcing dog control legislation. All reports of attacks on people are rigorously investigated, and where appropriate, formal enforcement action is taken — including prosecution, as demonstrated in this case.”

This case highlights the serious consequences dog owners can face if they fail to control their animals, particularly in incidents involving injury to members of the public.

The Council encourages residents to report any concerns regarding aggressive or uncontrolled dogs, reinforcing its zero-tolerance stance on breaches of dog control legislation.

For further information on responsible dog ownership or to report an incident, residents are urged to contact Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council directly.