Zoe Smith pleads guilty after thefts and dog attack

An unregistered dog has attacked a passing Jack Russell, leaving a large cut on its neck. Find out what happened.

Shepparton Magistrates' Court. Picture: Jack Colantuono

A young woman who stole almost $600 worth of items from popular stores was looking after her partner’s vicious dog when it seriously injured a smaller pooch.

Zoe Smith, 20, pleaded guilty at the Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on Monday to two counts of theft from shop and two counts of committing an indictable offence while on bail.

The incidents in question involved a string of thefts from popular stores, totalling $536 worth of stolen items.

However, the court proceedings took a more concerning turn when the harrowing tale of a vicious dog attack emerged.

The incident took place in Mooroopna on July 12 last year, where a Jack Russell Terrier fell victim to a dangerous dog belonging to Smith’s partner.

The small terrier suffered serious injuries and a deep laceration around its neck during the horrifying attack.

The Jack Russell’s owner, trying desperately to save her pet, also sustained injuries in the process and the pooch had to be rushed to a veterinary clinic, where extensive treatment amounted to a hefty sum of $2110 in medical bills.

Luckily it made a full recovery.

The next day, officers from Greater Shepparton City arrived at Smith’s residence, where they discovered the violent dog belonged to her partner.

Moreover, they found that the dog was unregistered, leading to its immediate seizure and impoundment.

The court was informed that the dog remained in custody for over a year — a significant period.

It was made clear during the court proceedings that Smith was not the owner of the dangerous dog and, as she was in custody, had no means to provide compensation for the damages caused.

“People become very attached to their pets,” Magistrate Peter Dunn said.

“It’s extremely traumatic if they pass away.”

Mr Dunn said it was “very fortunate” the Jack Russell survived and said he was aware dogs were “very good at escaping” and they should be “kept securely”.

Despite Mr Dunn’s comments, he fined Smith $2500.

In addition to the dog attack case, Smith’s day in court also involved another matter related to her thefts.

The Mooroopna woman was seen entering Kmart on Vaughan St in Shepparton and leaving with her bag full of stolen items without paying.

Later, she repeated the act at a local Coles store, walking out with items worth $536 without making any payment.

Police watched Smith load the stolen goods into a gold Toyota Camry and followed her to a location where she was subsequently arrested.

Despite the evidence against her, Smith maintained her innocence, falsely claiming that she had paid for the items when confronted by authorities.

“I told you I paid for the items,” Smith told police at the time.

Mr Dunn said these were “substantial matters” and sentenced her to undertake 15 hours of community work.