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Graham adds Class 3 misdemeanor for dangerous dogs following state law changes
Summary
Citing loss of enforcement authority after HB 300, Graham council added criminal penalty language to its animal control ordinance so that dangerous-dog violations may constitute a Class 3 misdemeanor; the change passed unanimously.
Graham, N.C. — The Graham City Council voted unanimously May 12 to amend Chapter 4 of the city code to allow a Class 3 misdemeanor for dangerous or potentially dangerous dogs.
Police Chief Brian Neil explained that amendments to state law removed certain local criminal penalty options and requested council approval to reinsert a Class 3 misdemeanor provision into local ordinance language pursuant to G.S. 160A-175 and G.S. 14-4.
The ordinance language describes restraint requirements, notice and appeal procedures, and that violations may carry criminal penalties in addition to civil remedies. Council approved the amendment unanimously and the ordinance will take effect as provided by law.
