Home

Green Head dog owner denies dangerous attack at Dynamite Bay

Headshot of Liam Beatty
Liam BeattyMidwest Times
Dynamite Bay at Green Head
Camera IconDynamite Bay at Green Head Credit: Mogens Johansen/WA News

The Coorow Shire has launched legal action against a Green Head resident over an alleged beachside attack involving his dogs.

Timothy Shaun Johnston made his first appearance in Geraldton Magistrate’s Court on Thursday on a charge of dangerous dog attack under the Dog Act.

A Shire ranger told the court prosecution had begun after Mr Johnston allegedly failed to take action following numerous incidents and one dog attack involving his animals.

He said the Shire would rely on the testimony of witnesses.

Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE

Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.

READ NOW

The incident is alleged to have occurred in Dynamite Bay, near the Green Head town site, on August 6 last year without causing injury. If convicted under the Act, Mr Johnston faces a fine of up to $10,000.

The 65-year-old pleaded not guilty to the charge, with duty lawyer Kelly Beard saying he denies the incident took place “in its entirety”. “I accept there was an interaction but there was no dog attack,” he told the court.

The matter was adjourned to a trial allocation date on April 12 by Magistrate Chris Miocevich, who said Mr Johnston would receive the Shire’s evidence against him in the meantime.

“On that date, if you maintain your plea of not guilty, I will set the matter down for trial,” he said. “Not to put pressure on you, but you should be aware if convicted you will be forced to pay the Shire’s substantial legal costs.”

Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.

Sign up for our emails