PHILIPSBURG:---- On Monday morning, August 11, 2025, police responded to a serious incident in South Reward where four dogs attacked a man walking along a public road. The victim sustained severe injuries and was transported to the hospital for urgent medical treatment. Statements have been taken from both the victim and the dog’s owner.
KPSM, in coordination with the Prosecutor’s Office, launched an investigation into the incident and began taking legal action against the dog’s owner.
On the morning of Thursday, August 14, 2025, acting with the permission of the Prosecutor’s Office, KPSM officers entered the property on Okra Road. All four dogs involved in the attack were confiscated with the assistance of a local veterinary clinic. The dogs were tranquilized and transported to the clinic on orders of the Prosecutor’s Office.
Dog owners, especially those with large or aggressive breeds, must ensure their animals are adequately secured at all times. This includes secure fencing, locked gates, use of muzzles and leashes in public, and continuous supervision. These measures are essential to protect the public and to meet legal obligations.
Allowing dogs to roam freely or failing to take necessary safety measures can result in serious injury, public danger, and criminal prosecution. Owners can be held legally and financially responsible for any harm caused by their animals.
Under Article 3:2 of the Penal Code of Sint Maarten, it is a criminal offense to fail to take sufficient measures to prevent dangerous dogs from causing harm. Consequences of negligence can include:
Criminal charges under the Penal Code.
Fines or other legal penalties.
Seizure of the animals or other enforcement actions.
KPSM urges all pet owners to take these responsibilities seriously to prevent harm and to safeguard the community.
KPSM Press Release.
