Resident raises repeated livestock losses from loose dogs; council and staff pledge to coordinate with sheriff's office

At the Sept. 3 Chesterfield County Council meeting resident Jack Hurst reported multiple livestock losses he attributed to loose dogs and asked county officials for enforcement.

“My name is Jack Hurst. I have an issue with dogs running loose,” Hurst said during public comment, and he told councilors he had photographic evidence and that about 40 goats had been killed in the last two years, including 10 the night before his appearance. Hurst said he previously pursued a judgment in court — he said a judge awarded him $3,200 — and that he has not been paid.

Council response and follow up

Council members and the administrator acknowledged the complaint and said the sheriff’s office and animal-control staff would be asked to follow up. A council member noted that animal control and law-enforcement resources are available to assist and that livestock owners have rights to protect animals and personal safety on their property; the council said it would connect Hurst with the sheriff’s office so that deputies or animal-control personnel could explain enforcement options and next steps.

Why it matters: Recurrent livestock losses raise enforcement, public‑safety and civil‑liability questions for affected residents and may require follow-up by the county sheriff and animal-control authorities. The meeting record shows councilors committed to referral to law enforcement rather than adopting new policy at the meeting.

Ending: The council asked the administrator and sheriff’s office to engage with the resident directly and did not take a formal policy vote during the meeting.