ATTENTION DOG OWNERS

The Winfield Police Department and Code Enforcement Officer are jointly alerting residents of Winfield to better secure their dogs after a recent rash of dangerous dog bite complaints.

As an example, three dog bite attacks and one dog charging complaint have resulted in two adults and two dogs being bitten, with one dog losing its life due to injuries received.  Another incident involved a resident who was just walking down the street when a dog, who had gotten away from its owner, charged and challenged the person.

The Winfield Police Department and Code Enforcement Officer investigate all dog complaints, and when a dog bite has occurred, a fine in the amount of $250 is imposed for the first offence with the fine amount increasing in the event of further offences.

Complaints of dogs which are knowingly or negligently running at large, chasing persons or vehicles, barking, howling, yelping or making noise which disturbs the peace and quiet of a neighborhood etc., are also investigated, which may result in fines being imposed, as permitted by the Town of Winfield Code of Ordinances, Chapter 92: Animals, Section 92.99: Penalty.

92.99 PENALTY.

A violation of the provisions of this chapter, a penalty for which is not otherwise provided for by Indiana statute shall subject the violator to a fine of not less than $25 nor more than $2,500, with each day being a separate violation. Upon a finding of liability, the violator shall also be assessed the costs incurred by the town in having its attorney prosecute the violation(s).

Please feel free to review the Town of Winfield Ordinance #92: Animals (click here), which outlines all requirements. 

Thank you for your cooperation on this very important matter.