Livia Morvay, a 65-year-old resident of Station Road in Heathfield, faced legal consequences for her persistent inability to manage her dogs properly, particularly when in the vicinity of livestock. The verdict was delivered at Hastings Magistrates’ Court on August 15th, where Morvay was found guilty of livestock harassment and nine instances of violating her Community Protection Notice.
Sussex Police’s Rural Crime Team initiated an investigation in 2020 after receiving numerous complaints from the local community about Morvay’s dogs running amok. In total, there were 27 documented incidents involving her dogs bothering livestock, causing accidents by knocking people over, and pursuing other dogs.
Morvay was arrested and charged with livestock harassment on three separate occasions and received both a Community Protection Warning and a Community Protection Notice. These orders mandated that Morvay ensure her dogs wore muzzles when in public spaces. Unfortunately, she repeatedly failed to comply with these conditions.
In August, Morvay was found guilty of nine breaches of the Community Protection Notice, resulting in fines of £600 for each breach, totaling £5,400. She was also obligated to compensate one of the victims with £300 and pay £190 to the court.
Additionally, Morvay received a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), prohibiting her from owning or controlling any dog for a period of five years. Violation of this order could lead to her arrest and a potential prison sentence of up to five years.
Sergeant Jon Attfield, of the Rural Crime Team, said: “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.”
