Northern beaches police Superintendent Dave Darcy issues jail warning to dog baiters
Police are on the hunt for whoever is responsible for dogs being baited with poisoned food on the northern beaches. And the peninsula’s top cop has issued a stark warning.
Manly
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The northern beaches’ top cop has assigned detectives to hunt those responsible for a string of dog baiting attempts on the peninsula.
Superintendent Dave Darcy said the baits could kill a child and said a jail sentence could be waiting for whoever is behind the incidents.
Northern Beaches Council will also erect several signs at popular dog walking areas to warn owners.
Several dog baits have been found in recent days including at Sandy Bay at Clontarf, Bayview and Curl Curl.
The Manly Daily has previously reported rat poison hidden in dog food and sausages thrown in back yards in Mona Vale.
Supt Dave Darcy said at this stage it was unclear how many people are behind the baiting incidents.
But he warned them that his detectives would track them down and make arrests.
“The consequences are enormous and we are really determined to get to the bottom of this before a child is killed,” he said.
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He said once a bait is laid it could sit there for weeks and be eaten by wildlife, a dog or a child.
“It is indiscriminate and really dangerous. Hurting someone’s child will have major criminal consequences.”
Dog owners have been left with hefty vet bills with some now too scared to take their dogs on walks.
One peninsula dog training group has even taken the step to put on an emergency workshop to teach owners how to train their dogs to leave food alone when they are out on walks.
Police are appealing for anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or on 9977 3399.