Following investigations, Mr Gareth Gault of Newtownabbey, was identified as the owner of an unlicensed French Bulldog that attacked three women between October 2024 and April 2025, in some cases causing severe facial injuries. Council Enforcement Officers subsequently executed a warrant and seized the dog involved following the incidents.
Mr Gault pleaded guilty to all charges and was sentenced at Laganside Magistrates’ Court on 5 May 2026. He received a combination order comprising 18 months’ probation and 80 hours of community service.
In addition, he was fined £100 for the offence of being the keeper of an unlicensed dog and was ordered to pay £1,000 compensation to each victim, £2,250 in legal costs, £750 towards Council kennelling costs and a £15 offender levy for each offence.
The Judge also issued a destruction order in respect of the dog and disqualified Mr Gault from keeping a dog for a period of 20 years.
A Council spokesperson said:
“Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council places a high priority on enforcing dog control legislation. Reports of dog attacks are thoroughly investigated, and formal action, including prosecution, is taken where appropriate, as demonstrated in this case.”
This case highlights the Council’s ongoing commitment to public safety and to robust enforcement of legislation designed to promote responsible dog ownership across the borough.