Dogs that have been destroyed due to attacks on people within the London area in 2021/22

Freedom of information request reference no: 01.FOI.22.023520

I note you seek access to the following information:

REQUEST 1:
What would you like to know?:
Within the London area between 2021/22, how many dogs have been destroyed due to attacks on people?

REQUEST 2:
What would you like to know?:
What are the consequences for the owner of a dog who attacks an individual.

Decision

I have today decided to disclose the located information to you in full.

Please find below information pursuant to your request above.

REQUEST 1:
What would you like to know?:
Within the London area between 2021/22, how many dogs have been destroyed due to attacks on people?

According to records held within the Status Dogs Unit, MPS, from 01/01/2021 to 31/12/2021, 81 dogs were destroyed as a result of an investigation under S3 Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. These include dogs subject to an order under S4a Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 and dogs disclaimed to Police unsuitable for rehoming.

REQUEST 2:
What would you like to know?:
What are the consequences for the owner of a dog who attacks an individual.

Whilst each case will be assessed on their own circumstances, a dog dangerously out of control which causes injury to another person would breach section 3 Dangerous Dogs act 1991 and a criminal offence. The maximum sentence available at court for cases involving injury to a person is 5 years imprisonment. In cases where the victim dies as a result of the injuries caused is 14 years.