Belfast Man Sentenced After Dog Attack On Child

A Belfast man has been fined and ordered to pay compensation after his dog escaped from a property in Broomhill Park and attacked a five-year-old boy, causing injuries to the child’s leg.

Belfast Man Sentenced Following Dog Attack

A Belfast man has been sentenced after a dog attack on a child in the Broomhill Park area of the city.

Lucas Bjorkman-Loney, of Broomhill Park, Belfast, appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court on Tuesday 2 June 2026 after being convicted of an offence involving a dog attacking a person.

The prosecution was brought by Belfast City Council following reports that Mr Bjorkman-Loney’s Pointer-type dog had attacked and injured a five-year-old boy.

Child Injured After Dog Escaped From Premises

The incident happened on 27 June 2025 after the dog escaped from premises at Broomhill Park.

According to the prosecution, the dog attacked the young boy in the street, causing injuries to his leg.

The case was taken under Article 29(2) of The Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1983.

Fine, Compensation And Costs Ordered

Following conviction, Mr Bjorkman-Loney was fined £750.

He was also ordered to pay a compensation order totalling £500, along with £132 in legal and court costs.

The case highlights the legal responsibility placed on dog owners in Northern Ireland to ensure their pets are properly controlled and do not pose a danger to members of the public.

Belfast Dog Control And Public Safety

Dog owners in Belfast are expected to take reasonable steps to prevent their dogs from escaping, straying, or causing injury.

Belfast City Council provides information on dog control and animal welfare, including how to report issues involving dogs.

Residents can also use the council’s online service to report a dog or animal welfare issue in Belfast.

Dog Owners Reminded Of Their Responsibilities

Under dog control legislation in Northern Ireland, owners may face prosecution if their dog attacks or injures a person.

Dog owners should make sure gates, doors, gardens, and outdoor areas are secure. Dogs should also be kept under proper control when in public.

Further public guidance is available from nidirect on controlling your dog in public.

Dog owners are being reminded to keep their pets secure, supervised and under control at all times to help prevent further incidents and protect the public.

Anyone concerned about a dog control issue in Belfast can contact Belfast City Council’s dog warden service or report the matter online.