A man has been charged after three police officers were allegedly injured by a dog – and denied the allegations at Swindon Magistrates’ Court.
John Camac, 55, pleaded not guilty to three counts of owning a Staffordshire bull terrier that caused injury to a person whilst dangerously out of control.
Prosecutor Kate Prince said the incidents are said to have occurred on two separate occasions and involved a police sergeant and two police community support officers (PCSOs).
It’s alleged the dog, named Rocco, bounded towards neighbourhood sergeant Richard Tottle – biting him on the wrist and causing a scratch – in October 2021.
The following month, in November 2021, it’s said Rocco bit PCSOs Ellie Grindrod and Ashlee John. Neither is said to have suffered any significant injuries.
Paul Gilmartin, defending, said Camac is “extremely upset” about the allegations and the fact his dog was seized and has remained in a pound for many months.
He claims the Crown Prosecution Service has “no evidence” to back up the charges, and says that pursuing the case is a waste of public money.
The defendant, of Studland Close, Park South, elected a crown court trial – despite the magistrates accepting jurisdiction over the case.
He will next appear at Swindon Court Court on 8 July for a plea and trial preparation hearing.
