GEORGE TOWN: Two friends claimed trial to a charge of animal cruelty at the Sessions Court here for allegedly dragging a dog tied to a motorcycle last month.
Lee Beng Hooi and Yeoh Keat Chye, both 62, pleaded not guilty to the charge read before judge Irwan Suainbon on Thursday (Oct 29).
They were jointly charged for dragging a female black dog on an iron chain along the road using a motorcycle, causing the animal unnecessary pain and suffering.
The offence allegedly occurred along a back lane behind a row of terrace houses at Jalan Hijau 4 in Jelutong between 6.26pm and 6.30pm on Sept 23.
The charge was framed under Section 29(1)(e) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, read together with Section 34 of the Penal Code for joint liability for criminal acts with common intent.
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If convicted, they face a fine between RM20,000 and RM100,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
Veterinary Services Department (DVS) prosecuting officer Noorfaiz Fikri Nor Azmi asked the court to fix a date for the submission of documents.
Azhar Ahmad, assisting in the prosecution, told the court that an application would be filed to put the dog up for adoption.
"This (will be)... to a party which the department deems fit," he said.
Judge Irwan then fixed Dec 7 for mention.
The dog, named Blacky by its handler, was also in court and appeared to have recovered from its injuries.
It was reported on Sept 24 that Penang DVS had identified the two men captured on video dragging a dog behind a motorcycle in Jelutong.
The incident came to light after a passer-by intervened and urged the men to stop.
Independent animal rescuer David Yim then lodged a report with the DVS.
