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Both the dog owner and the catcher have been charged with animal cruelty over the death of a male dog named Rocky last month
In court proceedings today, 20 August, Muhammad Shah Idham Nor Haikal Shaharom, 24, and S Roghini Devi, 42, claimed trial to the charges framed under Section 29(1)(e) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015 and punishable under Section 29(1) of the same Act, reported the New Straits Times.
They were accused of hurting Rocky in front of a house along Jalan Sama Gagah 20, Taman Telok Gedung Indah in Klang, Selangor, between 11pm and 11.30pm on 29 July.
Shah was reportedly one of the volunteers involved in an operation by the Klang Royal City Council (MBDK) to catch strays in the neighbourhood.
A viral video of the incident purportedly showed Shah using a snare pole on Rocky while Roghini pleaded with him to stop.
According to FMT, Roghini was also charged with the same offence for allegedly "unreasonably" pulling Rocky while a looped rope was around its neck, causing unnecessary pain or suffering to the animal.
Veterinary Services Department (DVS) prosecuting officer Sharif Sabran told the court that the prosecution would seek a joint trial for Roghini and Shah as both accused are facing the same charge over Rocky's death
Sharif said both cases involved the same facts.
Both Roghini and Shah were granted a RM6,000 bail, respectively, with one surety each and ordered to report to the Selangor DVS once a month.
If convicted, the duo face up to a fine of between RM20,000 and RM100,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
The case has been fixed for mention on 8 October.
Meanwhile, Roghini was also charged under Section 3 of the MBDK's Dog Licensing and Dog Breeding House By-Laws for allegedly failing to obtain a valid licence for Rocky.
If convicted, she faces a maximum fine of RM2,000, a jail term of up to one year, or both, reported NST.
Learn more about the case here:
Rocky’s Owner Shares Account Of What Happened On The Night He Died
Roghini Devi showed photographs of Rocky, whom she said she had rescued from the streets as a puppy two years ago.
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