IPOH: A 42-year-old mechanic, Hew Kan Wai, has been charged at the Sessions Court here for allegedly abusing his pet dog.
Hew pleaded not guilty after the charge under Section 29(1)(a) of the Animal Welfare Act was read in Cantonese by a court interpreter before Judge Jean Sharmila Jesudason on Wednesday (Feb 12).
Hew is accused of hitting the dog, a mixed pit bull, with a sledgehammer and injuring it in front of a house in Taman Ria on Jan 18 at about 8pm.
If convicted, he could face a fine of up to RM100,000, a maximum prison sentence of three years, or both.
Deputy public prosecutor Qurratu'aini Khalifah proposed setting bail at RM20,000.
National Legal Aid Foundation lawyer M. Kathan argued that Hew earns about RM2,000 a month while his wife is not working.
"He has two children, studying in Form Two and in Standard Six. He is also taking care of his mother and four nephews, aged six, eight, 12, and 13, after his elder brother passed away," Kathan said.
"RM20,000 is too high and it should be lowered," he added. When asked about an affordable amount, Kathan suggested RM1,000.
Qurratu'aini countered that RM1,000 was too low, noting that the dog is alive and under the care of the Veterinary Services Department.
Judge Jean Sharmila set bail at RM2,500 with one surety and scheduled March 11 for mention.
She also ordered Hew to report to the nearest police station once a month until the case is concluded.
