Heathfield woman convicted for livestock worrying

Livia Morvay was sentenced at Hastings Magistrates’ Court for livestock worrying and for breaching an existing Community Protection Notice.

Sussex Police received 27 reports of her dogs worrying livestock and chasing other dogs. Morvay was previously arrested on three separate occasions and issued with both a Community Protection Warning and a Community Protection Notice.

These required her to ensure her dogs wore a muzzle when in public, but the conditions of these orders were repeatedly breached.

Morvay was convicted of nine breaches of the Community Protection Notice and fined a total of £5,400. She was also ordered to pay £300 compensation to one of the victims and £190 to the court.

A Criminal Behaviour Order was also issued, meaning she cannot keep or control any dogs for five years. If this is breached, she could face a prison sentence.

Sergeant Jon Attfield, of the Sussex Police Rural Crime Team, commented: “This case is a reminder of the importance of responsible dog ownership.

“Morvay’s actions caused significant harm to the agricultural and rural community, to other dog owners and to members of the public.

“She did not take responsibility for her dogs, repeatedly ignoring the requirements of orders imposed by the court, and she has now been fined and banned as a result.

“We hope this sends a message to any other irresponsible dog owners that police and the courts will take action against those who fail to keep their dogs under control.”