‘Get them! Get them!’ Montrose man fined for encouraging dog to bite woman

An Angus man whose Staffordshire terrier bit a neighbour after he shouted ”Get them! Get them!” has been fined £390.

Norman McNeilly (34), of Seagate, Montrose, admitted that on October 25 last year at the common close at his address he behaved in a threatening or abusive manner and repeatedly shouted and swore.

He also admitted instructing the dog to attack a woman whereby it bit her on the body, all to her injury.

Arbroath Sheriff Court heard McNeilly had taken issue with his neighbours after they collided on the stairwell at about 7.10pm. There was an exchange between them and he began to shout and swear. They then went into the flat. However, later that evening they heard the door to their flat opening.

McNeilly entered with two Staffordshire terriers. One of the dogs became agitated and started growling and snarling.

Depute fiscal Jill Drummond said McNeilly shouted ”Get them! Get them!” and the animal bit a woman on the right middle finger. She cried in pain and police were contacted.

Solicitor Billy Rennie said words had been exchanged before the incident happened. He said his client said both dogs were on their leashes.