Birmingham dog owner Bashart Ali has been ordered to pay over £2,000 and warned that his unregistered XL Bully, Hagler, could be destroyed if he fails to obtain an exemption certificate within two months. The 54-year-old father of two appeared at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on June 23, where he pleaded guilty to possessing a fighting dog.
Court Orders and Financial Penalties
Ali, of Middlemore Road, was reported to Birmingham City Council by a neighbour. His dog was seized by police on April 15 and has been held in kennels ever since. The court imposed a total payment of £2,178, which includes £1,925 in kennel costs to West Midlands Police, a £120 fine, a £48 victim surcharge, and £85 prosecution costs. Ali, who is unemployed and supported by his wife, must pay £100 per month starting within 28 days.
Exemption Requirements
The Chair of the Magistrates stated that while Hagler does not pose a risk, he is a banned type of dog. Ali must obtain a certificate of exemption within two months, which requires the dog to be neutered, microchipped, and insured. In public, Hagler must be kept on a lead and muzzled. Failure to comply could result in prison, seizure, destruction of the dog, and additional costs for destruction.
Dog's Background
The court heard that Hagler has not been involved in any fights and is described as a 'family-friendly' pet. Ali asked the magistrates, 'When am I going to get the dog back?' The prosecutor noted that police have spent £24 million on kennel fees across the UK, with Hagler's care costing £25 per day. West Midlands Police requested a Contingent Destruction Order (CDO) to allow the dog to be spared from euthanasia if Ali complies.
Mitigation and Next Steps
Ali's representative, Ms Begum, stated that the defendant is not on benefits and is supported by his wife, who works for the city council. She emphasised that the dog is family-friendly and that Ali wants to do what is right to have his dog returned. The court granted a collection order, and Ali must make the first payment within 28 days.
