A man who allegedly decapitated another man’s pet dog is to go on trial accused of criminal damage.
Paul Jenkins, 27, was charged with the offence after allegedly “destroying” the tiny Shar Pei, which belonged to a man called Sean Smith.
Jenkins, of St Ives Grove, Old Swan, is also accused of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, affray and possession of a bladed article, during the same incident in November last year.
It is alleged that the defendant, formerly of Sugar Lane, Knowsley Village , caused Mr Smith to fear for his safety.
Jenkins appeared at Liverpool Crown Court this morning where he pleaded not guilty to all four offences.
The bearded defendant, with short brown hair and wearing a white shirt and black tie in the dock, spoke only to enter his pleas.
Judge Denis Watson, QC, said a trial expected to last two to three days would be held on the week commencing January 25 next year.
The judge remanded Jenkins on conditional bail.
Merseyside Police have previously said the alleged offence was deemed as criminal damage because the dog was classed as property.
Under the Criminal Damage Act 1971, “property” includes wild creatures which have been tamed or are ordinarily kept in captivity.
The maximum sentence is a fine or three months in prison.
Source: http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/