PONTARDAWE, Wales – A resident of Pontardawe, Colin Probert, has been sentenced for his pet Rottweiler’s violent attacks on two individuals, sparking concerns about pet owner responsibility and animal control laws in the area. The verdict comes after two separate incidents where Probert’s dog, TJ, caused serious injuries to victims in the community.
The first attack occurred on August 20, 2022, when TJ viciously attacked Holly-Jean Emery, resulting in significant arm injuries and psychological trauma. Nearly a year later, on August 23, TJ targeted Mark Bennett, causing injuries that required medical attention. The severity of these incidents led to a thorough evaluation by the court and a subsequent verdict.
According to information presented in Swansea Crown Court, TJ, although typically “docile” within the family, exhibited alarming unpredictability and power during the attacks. The judge, recognizing the potential dangers posed by the Rottweiler, ordered TJ’s destruction. Additionally, Probert, with a criminal record that includes convictions for theft, burglary, and stalking, admitted guilt to owning a dangerously out of control dog that caused injury. As a result, he was handed a 14-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, with requirements for rehabilitation and community service. Notably, the court did not order Probert to compensate the victims due to his financial situation.
The case has emphasized an ongoing issue in Pontardawe and the broader Lowcountry. The South Wales Department of Health and Environmental Control reported over 3,000 dog bites between 2021 and 2022, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. This serves as a notable reminder that pet owners bear a substantial responsibility for their pets’ behavior and the potential harm they can cause to others.
The incidents involving TJ have prompted local authorities and animal control agencies to reevaluate current regulations and enforcement measures, with community members advocating for more stringent laws to prevent similar occurrences in the future. As the community grapples with the aftermath of these attacks, the case has ignited discussions about the need for greater awareness and responsibility among pet owners, as well as the critical importance of ensuring public safety in situations involving dangerous animals.