Woman sentenced for dog breach and police assault

Morag Jackson was found guilty of an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 as well as three offences under the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012.

She was found to have obstructed and lashed out at police officers.

Hamilton Sheriff Court heard that Scottish SPCA inspectors and police went to her address in Stonehouse on 17 January 2017 with a warrant after receiving information that there were dogs on the property.

While officers were searching the house Ms Jackson returned and parked her car, obstructing the access road to the farm and preventing anyone from leaving.

When she repeatedly refused requests to move she was arrested for obstructing officers carrying out their duty.

When officers attempted to apply handcuffs Ms Jackson began struggling, lashing out at the officers and when placed in the police vehicle she kicked out, striking one of the officers in the chest.

Four dogs were subsequently recovered from her farm. The court today made an order depriving her of possession of the dogs.

Fraser Gibson, procurator fiscal for Hamilton said: “Morag Jackson’s assault of a police officer was entirely unacceptable. No one should be the subject of an assault at work and we take assaults against police officers, and other emergency services, very seriously.

“Jackson was disqualified from keeping dogs having previously been convicted of four offences under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.