By BRIDGET COOK
A CANNONS Creek man has become the first in the state to be handed a 10-year restricted dog ownership ban under tough illegal puppy farm laws.
The prosecution of an unregistered domestic animal business operating in Cannons Creek concluded last week at the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court, after the City of Casey brought 37 charges against business operator John Max Tresize.
Following an extensive investigation by the council, Tresize was charged with 37 offences under the Domestic Animals Act and Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.
Tresize pleaded guilty to 20 charges under the Domestic Animals Act including conducting an Unregistered Domestic Animal Business and non-compliance with the relevant code of practice for the running of such a business.
He also plead guilty to seven charges under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act including failing to provide adequate vet treatment to dogs and a horse.
The magistrate ruled that Tresize was prohibited from owning more than two registered dogs or having in his possession an unregistered dog for a period of 10 years.
He was also ordered to make a $400 donation to the RSPCA and pay witness costs of $900.
In relation to the council’s legal costs, the two parties will negotiate an amount and if no agreement can be reached, the matter will return to the courts for a resolution.
City of Casey acting manager community safety Jem Belcher said the investigation commenced in December 2012 and demonstrated the complexity and subsequent length of time it takes to work through the legal process.
“In addition to the favourable legal outcome, as part of this prosecution, the council obtained custody and re-homed 11 dogs and 27 puppies which now have loving families,” he said.
“We are pleased that the legal system has upheld the council’s view and taken action to demonstrate that cruelty to animals will not be tolerated in our community.”
Minister for Agriculture and Food Security Peter Walsh said that Tresize was the first to receive the 10-year restricted dog ownership ban.
“The penalty of a 10-year ban on ownership was introduced as part of the Victorian Government’s crackdown on illegal puppy farming,” he said.
“The law changes we introduced also gave council officers and RSPCA inspectors powers to enter and inspect breeding premises, to seize animals from unregistered and non-compliant facilities, and to shut down such facilities.
“I commend the City of Casey for its professional conduct during this challenging compliance and prosecution activity.”
