Northern Ireland’s most senior judges have made the decision to destroy Lennox, despite the worldwide campaign to try and save the dog.
The dog’s owner, Caroline Barnes, lost her legal battle to have the decision overturned on Tuesday afternoon in Belfast. In May 2010 the dog was seized by Belfast City Council dog wardens. It was ruled that Lennox was a danger to the public and should be put down.
Although Barnes now accepts that Lennox is a pit bull-type dog she claims that there has been a failure to consider the dog’s exemption from the scheme, according to BBC reports. Barnes argued with the court that Lennox had never bitten anyone or misbehaved since being impounded. She says her dog was never given a chance.
On Tuesday her legal team went before the Court of Appeal and three judges (Lord Justice Girvan, Lord Chief Justice Sir Declan Morgan and Lord Justice Higgins). However the judges confirmed that Lennox would be put down.
Lord Justice Girvan pointed to the Dangerous Dogs Act, which was extended to Northern Ireland in 2011. He spoke about the report from the dog wardens who attempted to examine and measure the dog in 2010. They were told the dog would “rip their head off”.
An expert dog handler, retained by the City Council, said Lennox had a severe personality defect, including having a problem with strangers. They added it would be impossible to tell what the dog might do under stress, according to Ulster Television (UTV) reports.
The court’s statement read “The judge had heard evidence on the issues relating to this dog over a protracted two-day hearing, carefully considered the evidence and the issues and he reached conclusions of fact which have not been vitiated by any error of law on his part.”
Lennox was five-years-old when he was taken from the Barne’s family. He had lived with the family and being a companion to their disabled child Brooke.
He will now be destroyed by the Belfast City Council. No date for his destruction has been released.
TheExaminer.com reports that the Barne’s family have now been denied a final request to see their dog before he is killed.
The Save Lennox campaign who are continuing to petition for the dog’s freedom have said the Barne’s family will release an a statement on the matter.
Here's a video from the "Save Lennox" campaign:
Read more: Lennox the dog death sentence is a complete farce -- Neither rhyme nor reason to the Lord Chief Justice’s decision
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Switch to the desktop site to post a comment.jimholley1 | Nov 05, 2012, 12:40 PM EST
All I can say after reading all this sirpeter, you are a MORON. So are any of the God playing judges and law related folks involved. You try and write clever, you say things to make you appear smart............YOU are NOT! I challenge everything you have written in your comments! You deserve what you have wished upon this dog, or the "rabbit" you mentioned! Humans have "instincts", the very same kind you claim dogs/animals have (in their lesser reasoning). These instincts will make a human kill and defend in the same manner, so.....are humans animals? You certainly seem to be acting as one! "ignorance breeds ignorance", this sir, is YOU! "bred ignorant". There are ways of "proving a dogs heritage". That comment alone, proves you are uneducated, just as are those playing GOD! People playing GOD, sickening!!!! Shame to say that by the time his is posted, this dog may be dead, but again, sirpeter, You will hopefully soon, experience the "control" with which this government has placed upon these people and their pet. Then maybe, you will find the heart you have obviously been bred lacking.
Galilio | Jul 05, 2012, 06:36 PM EDT
In the period of time that "Lennox" has been locked up he has most likely been mistreated,thereby creating different behavior patterns. This would be a dominant reason the family would not be allowed near him. The cruelty they have inflicted on the hearts and minds of the family who love him is beyond measure. To destroy the life of a dog that was protected and loved by this family is to also destroy a part of their life as well. The disabled daughter who has cared for Lennox for five years will carry this sorrow for years to come. If they will not consider the anguish of the dog, then the child's feelings should have had some influence. Poor Lennox will never know the fight the family who loves him has fought.
Claudiah Chris | Jul 02, 2012, 12:26 PM EDT
Hey, I am back, hoping that the Irich authorities change their minds and give what the dog Lennox diserves more than anything: Just his life...Clemency for his life Irish authorities. All Irish people. Do some thing. Get every one together and fight for him. Honor his life. Move public actions, please. I wish I could do something for releasing him. Then, no more pain, no more tears. Hello there! Hello my God, father of the humanity. Mercy my lord. Save Lennox! From a Brazilian citzen.
behumble1 | Jun 20, 2012, 11:26 AM EDT
This has been a terrible event for Lennox and the family. Not being able to say good bye make us wonder what have these so called higher ups have already done to Lennox. Yes the world is watching this circus and heart break. This dog did nothing but fall into the courts hands. And Sirpeter if you were and are in fact involved in this case I think it is a major conflict of interest for you to be adding your two worthless cents. After all if you are involved you have just proved what the world already knows...There has been no proof of this dog being dangerous and the way he was seized of what I read was very cowardly on the 'authorities' part. The only ones who committed any crime is the ones who are so quick to put this dog down and without even a good bye from his family...So if you are involved in the murder of this dog you should not even be here you already had your say. You are pathetic and seem to be defending your actions...maybe because your ignorance has been made public...Lying cowards live in Blefast in my opinion. Not every Pit Bull looking dog is dangerous only the simple minded people are...Watch out I hear Poodles can take off a finger!
Lunamoth1917 | Jun 19, 2012, 07:10 PM EDT
I have not forgotten. And the World is still watching. And Save Lennox is growing. Clemency for Lennox!! He is Innocent. And the laws for these dogs are ignorant and racial.
Gil-Ann | Jun 17, 2012, 12:22 AM EDT
Anyone on this thread that agrees with the horrific abuse of this Labmix puppy, Lennox, and his family is probably one of the officials involved set up under a 'fake account'. Is Lennox still alive? Why want you let the family see him? Why want you let a family Veterinarian see him? What are you trying to hide? Have you already killed him and at a loss of what to do now? No matter what you end up doing the WORLD IS WATCHING....AND I MEAN MILLIONS. IF YOU STILL HAVE LENNOX ALIVE SEND HIM HOME. WHAT YOU HAVE DONE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. Quit being cowards, let him go home. WHERE IS LENNOX, WHAT'S THE SECRET? WHERE IS HE RIGHT NOW?
ces88 | Jun 15, 2012, 10:35 PM EDT
In addition, Sir Peter, I think you have been a little judgemental by calling what others have wrote crap. In the same paragraph you said "To argue that a dog is innocent or guilty is to imply that a dog has higher reasoning." and then said "It got a human trial for which it should be grateful". Is gratitude therefore not an emotion attributed to higher reasoning animals? But why I actually wanted to point this out was because I don't understand what you mean by it. Why did you say 'human' trial? Obviously no human would ever be tried for or in this way so I can only presume you mean the very act of being granted a trial is the human aspect. You are correct in saying that animals only have rights because the law grants and upholds them but this is also true of human rights so therefore please explain why the dog should be 'grateful' that it was tried?
ces88 | Jun 15, 2012, 10:22 PM EDT
As a veterinary nurse, soon to be in training as a vet I am in full support of the British Veterinary Associations 'deed not breed' principle. Not only is the Dangerous Dog's act extremely difficult to enforce given that the pit bull terrier is not a recognised breed in the UK but it also condemns all members of that breed without discriminating for the individual. So currently dog's deemed a pit bull type are seized as 'guilty' and may get the chance to be proven 'innocent' whereas dog's of all other breeds are innocent until they have acted aggressively. The main reason I have an issue with this legislation is that I have encountered so many apparently cute and sweet, family-type dogs such as springers, retrievers and collies who have almost had my face off in sudden bursts of anger yet also experienced countless guard dog breeds (rotties, dobermans and bull terrier types) all frightened and in pain (i.e. pro-agressive situations) which have displayed no signs of anger or untoward behaviour. And therefore by listing certain breeds as 'dangerous dogs' the government is actually misleading the public into a genuinely dangerous mis-conception that non-listed breeds will not bite or show aggression!
Lunamoth1917 | Jun 15, 2012, 01:00 PM EDT
This wrong needs to be made right.. The world is watching. I have shared Lennox story on facebook.. Why are the people of Ireland allowing this ignorance to continue?? Do you not have a voice. The people have said what The Belfast Council has allowed to happen is wrong.. And the Judges continue the ignorance and can't see the truth.. People make mistakes and it what they do with them. Did the dog have ANY PRIOR HISTORY OF AGGRESSION? NO.. OF COURSE THE DOG WAS IN STRESS REMOVED BY STRANGERS FOR NO REASON OTHER THAN HIS BREED.. And the people that the state put up as having animal knowledge.. hmmmm don't think so. How would a dog react being in a new place like a prison.. by strangers.. hmm i think I would not like it.. DON'T NEEDS TO BE RETURNED TO HER OWNER.. FREE LENNOX..Even in America we know the difference between right and wrong. The diffference of innocent till proven guilty.. And the dog was not guilty from the beginning.. Innocent till proven guilty.. No HISTORY OF AGGRESSION WHILE IN CUSTODY OF OWNERS.. Mean Innocent.. Why don't ya'll get Cesar Milan's opinion.. He is a expert.. SHAME SHAME
Gil-Ann | Jun 14, 2012, 07:43 PM EDT
VERY EASY WAY TO SOLVE THIS. Relinquish custody of Lennox to Victoria Stilwell, Cesar Milan or all the celebrities that want to help. If you relinquish Lennox, it will save his life, no more fees, just give us the dog. I am in utter disbelief that because of the way this dog looks, you are sentencing him to death. Do you realize how ridiculous this is? Millions of animal lovers all over the EARTH are offering to help Lennox. Let him go....we can take care of him until his family can be reunited with him. Perhaps a fund should be set up to have the family and Lennox moved from Belfast to a place that does not judge you by the way you look. THE ENTIRE EARTH WANTS TO SEE THIS DOG SET FREE. Give it up...let him go. Let this nightmare end with a happy ending. MAKE A WRONG A RIGHT....FREE THIS SWEET BOY ASAP...DON'T LET ANYBODY ELSE SUFFER...LET HIM GO!
sirpeter | Jun 13, 2012, 11:49 PM EDT
braxton.I understand your scribblings as written by those of a madman.Shame on Belfast is the only words that are yours. Nice of you to give your opinion in the last three words of your comment just to let everyone know what side you are on.I'm sure the thickos here read three sentences before their heads hit the keyboard and muttered he must be right it's like my insurance policy.What a load of crap.You're some idiot.The judgement was made not on weather the dog was a American pit bull terrier’ or ‘pit bull terrier.But on the temperament of the animal.According to those who kept the animal in their care there was nothing vague about the viciousness of the animals nature.That's what counts.
braxton | Jun 13, 2012, 09:00 PM EDT
The wording American pit bull terrier’ or ‘pit bull terrier’ used as an easily identifiable breed of dog is clearly vague and in no way sufficiently clear and precise therefore violates equal protection and due process, by not stipulating specific guidelines to inhibit Councils Animal Control Officers from enforcing the law in an arbitrary or discriminatory fashion and on the ground that the ordinance's definition of an American pit bull terrier’ ,pit bull terrier, is on its face unconstitutionally vague or void due to vagueness. Misfeasance a form of wrongdoing, especially the doing of something lawful in an unlawful way so that the rights of others are infringed. Generally, a civil defendant will be liable for misfeasance if the defendant owed a duty of care toward the plaintiff, the defendant breached that duty of care by improperly performing a legal act, and the improper performance resulted in harm to the plaintiff. misfeasance n. management of a business, public office or other responsibility in which there are errors and an unfortunate result through mistake or carelessness, but without evil intent and/or violation of law. Misfeasance is distinguished from "malfeasance" which is conduct in violation of the law. There is absolutely NO methodology in existence anywhere in the world by which the breed components of a dog of unknown parentage can be identified with any level of certainty. Any government/council/individual/pound who says they can is kidding themselves and committing fraud. That these experts in dog breed identification held training to a level supported in the "Rules of Law" as a true expert....What about Vicarious Liability? Maladministration-mismanagement, incompetence, inefficiency, misrule, corruption, blundering, bungling, malpractice, dishonesty, malfeasance.. and Perjury.Shame on Belfast!!
ballyhip | Jun 13, 2012, 08:03 PM EDT
Been trying to avoid this controversy for the longest time but it seems to have reached its conclusion. As someone who worked in the property and casualty insurance industry and a dog owner, I have a somewhat different take on this case. Yes, dogs are products of breeding and inherit certain traits because of that. The reason that American insurers will often refuse or surcharge owners of pit bulls and other breeds for homeowners insurance is not because they are viscious at birth. It is because if not properly socialized, they can inflict horrendous damage on humans, mostly children, because of their instinct to bite and hold with devastating results. Many breeds bite more often than pit bulls but the results are markedly different. Has Lennos exhibited any aggressive tendencies towards dogs or humans? It would seem not. Interesting to think how an American insurance company would underwrite the family's home since he is for all intents and puposes, a mongrel.
Pat F | Jun 13, 2012, 06:30 PM EDT
If the Belfast Council had even a trace of decency, they would allow the family to say goodbye to their beloved pet, to see him one last time. I wonder if the dog is in poor physical condition and that is why they refuse to let his people see Lennox before they kill him. The process that took Lennox away and condemned him to death, and the court verdicts that have upheld the order for his death, are unjust as well as cruel.
Boxerangel | Jun 13, 2012, 05:49 PM EDT
ignorance breeds ignorance........... lennox is and always will be innocent..let blood be on their hands...thats not how the world is meant to work...........its because of ppl who think like you sirpeter that the world is in this mess..... do you not read..lennox has had assessments by 2 independant behaviouralists and was deemed safe was only the lies of the ex policedog handler(noexpert) that said otherwise...you clearly do not read the facts.... i'm done arguing with someone who thinks they are clever with words and believes what you do...its wrong....
sirpeter | Jun 13, 2012, 03:55 PM EDT
Boxerangel.No!! This is not about an innocent dog.A dog is neither guilty nor innocent.To argue that a dog is innocent or guilty is to imply that a dog has higher reasoning.An animal does not have higher reasoning.They act on instinct. Animals don't give other animals rights.Animals will kill at a real or perceived danger especially if it thinks it's young might be harmed.The only rights this dog has are the ones humans gave it.It got a human trial for which it should be grateful and it lost.In the animal world.Another animal will not give another animal that it perceives as a threat to it's young a trial.It will try to scare it off if the threat is dangerous to itself or kill it outright if it can.Every single human (note:~Single) can kill Lennox if they think the dog might (note: might) be a danger to them.This is a judgement call by higher reasoning humans on a lower reasoning animal that acts on instinct.It's a pity,but that's life said the dog to the rabbit as it gasped it last toothy breath.
RedBranch | Jun 13, 2012, 03:21 PM EDT
Right that's it I'm going on huger strike tomorrow. Free the Lennox 1.
Boxerangel | Jun 13, 2012, 02:40 PM EDT
Mmmmmmmmmm you think you are funny and clever with words..i think not ..this is about an innocent dog who is not an illegal breed who is not aggressive who is not a danger...you condone murder do you of an innocent be it animal or human!!!!and you condone a corrupt legal system too... shame on you and all like you... man was not put on earth to be hateful...dogs aren't it's all mans doing.... you truely are unbelievable and laughable yourself...pictures dont lie..they tell the truth your warden and council all lie....
sirpeter | Jun 13, 2012, 01:54 PM EDT
Boxerangel.I will try to keep this simple.Some people are more qualified and more insightful when it comes to matters of law and justice.You!!(and I don't want you to take this badly)are neither qualified OR insightful.This can be proven by the fact that you didn't dismiss out of hand that a judge would actually come on this site to explain him/herself.I'm hoping you are a child as I find it hard to believe an adult would be that gullible to believe my comment below.I'll explain!! You said I was obviously one of the people involved with Belfast CC (laughable)So I said I was actually the Judge (also laughable)That's why I think you are a child. Are you?
citizen69 | Jun 13, 2012, 12:16 PM EDT
While this is a sad story, you people need to get some perspective and a reality check here... There are 75 banned or restricted dog breeds in the United States. Pit-bulls and other banned breeds are put to sleep at the rate of 4000 EVERY DAY in the USA alone for being so-called dangerous dogs!! So please start directing some of your anger to your own country and your own draconian laws before looking at other countries!
Boxerangel | Jun 13, 2012, 09:34 AM EDT
sirpeter...are you being serious about being a judge on this case???????????? your actions, that of Belfastcc and all judges and your whole corrupt bloody legal system out there will come back to haunt you.... you horrible jumped up man...We all know Lennox is the innocent one here and his family its the failings of your legal system why this outcry is happening that and the lieing warden and everyone involved...you know who you are...you shameful shameful people.. those pictures of that dogwarden with lennox are ABUSE.............
AmiKumiga | Jun 13, 2012, 09:34 AM EDT
To whom it may concern: I am deeply saddened and disturbed by your decision to euthanize the dog Lennox on the mere basis of his breed (which was disproven by a DNA test), and a claim by one person who may have prejudices (the warden watching over the dog in custody) that there are concerns for the dogs temperament and behavior. In addition to determining the legal extent of the law, are not judges responsible for making moral and ethical decisions based upon INTERPRETATION of the law? Is it ethical or moral to kill a dog because of fear of a breed, or claims made by one or two biased people? Why can't you just extradite Lennox to the United States? There are thousands upon thousands of people who would gladly give Lennox a loving home and spare his life, and here in the United States of America, we do not persecute people or animals based upon their breed, ethnicity, race, religion, gender or creed. This is why so many Irish and British fled to America during the 18th, 19th, 20th and even 21st centuries. Hearing of the decision to execute the dog Lennox in northern Ireland makes me ashamed of my Irish, English and Scottish heritage (of which I am all three). Here in America, animals of any breed are at the very least are not euthanized merely for their breed. We too have a long way to go in the animal rights movement and treatment of animals, but at least Lennox would not be euthanized here. There is no need for a dog or any animal to lose his life simply based upon unjustified fear of a few individuals who likely have no business working with animals. Please, please reconsider extraditing Lennox to the US, rather than euthanizing him. You have a moral duty to protect and save innocent lives, even if you have a legal duty to honor and obey laws, and to disallow Lennox to live in northern Ireland.
sirpeter | Jun 13, 2012, 09:10 AM EDT
Boxerangel. Yeah!! That's right.I'm obviously one of the people involved with the warden and the Belfast County Council.Well in fact I'm one of the judges.I read the comments below and I felt compelled to explain my actions in relation with this savage dog.Well actually No!! I don't.I don't have to explain my judgement at all.That's why I'm the judge.Now all of ye shut up before I do ye for contempt of court and smack ye all with a rolled up newspaper.
KarlynV23 | Jun 13, 2012, 08:18 AM EDT
This is a HATE CRIME against a dog whose only crime was being born. If the judges are allowed to do this, they should be locked away for a hate crime. This is so judgemental without just cause. The judges are no better than Hitler or the KKK. This is cruel and inhumane to leave this animal wondering where his family is, what hes done wrong and why they arent coming back for him. I will NEVER spend my money in Ireland or on any product that comes from that country. It is sad since I am an Irish girl that has always wanted to vist and now my mother will cancel her plans as well. My money will stay in the USA. It is very upsetting that these judges are obviously in need of education and yet they make the decisions based on judgement based on heritage. How would they feel if they were told they would be killed for being Irish or whatever nationality they are? What a sad, hateful country, Im glas my eyes were opened before wasting my money.
Boxerangel | Jun 13, 2012, 03:40 AM EDT
funny how BCC have released a pure pitbull called Bruce back in novemeber 2011........... what u got to say about this and 2 others on the same day...but not lennox...he is innocent you bloody shameful lieing ppl who perjured yourselves in court and this was accepted...says a lot about your legal system doesnt it....wonder whos paying you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Boxerangel | Jun 13, 2012, 03:24 AM EDT
its ok my comment either was not posted or wiped...and sirpeter you are obviously one of people invloved with the warden and belfastcc ..you need to get a life...i pity any animal in your care.... Belfastcc and the judges are all corrupt this the world can see and as for the EX policedog handler who lied in court and has on numerous other cases in uk and been shouted down for it in court well....he should be totally an utterly ashamed oh and by the way this so called person also admitted in court that the way to control an unmanageable dog was to kick it punch it put it to the floor lie on it so couldnt breath....nice man eh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! go crawl wherever u come from and keep horrible comments to yourself about lennox ... Remember this HE IS INNOCENT ...PICTURES DO NOT LIE....shameeful shameful ppl..............
jchatelain | Jun 13, 2012, 01:20 AM EDT
I am TRYING to post my real comment and it will not accept it!
jchatelain | Jun 13, 2012, 01:17 AM EDT
This is WRONG.
Kentucky Lady | Jun 13, 2012, 12:44 AM EDT
There is pictures out there that I have posted with the warden kissing up with Lennox..She has played all of Ireland with her lies..If Lennox loses his life then Ireland loses people from all over the world..If a tragic happens in Ireland please dont expect help.Ireland is burning bridges around them from many angles due to the poor treatment on Lennox..Do the right thing and fire the warden and Send Lennox home to spend his life with his real family or to any of us would take him..REMEMBER KILLING LENNOX WILL KILL YOUR ALIES ALL AROUND THE WORLD IF A NATURAL DISATERS HAPPENS..DONT LOOK AROUND CAUSE NONE OF US WILL HELP DOG KILLERS..SAVE LENNOX AND IRELANDS REPUTATIION..
Singpraise | Jun 13, 2012, 12:10 AM EDT
To the person who said he needed to be destroyed and he is dangerous, You are kidding right? The only reason he was taken in the first place was NOT because he was dangerous BUT because he was thought to be a pitbull. And when his DNA test turned out to say he is NOT any part pitbull- Then they called him VISCIOUS! And it was the POS dog warden who said that- AND she is seen in MANY pictures, hugging and holding lennox! Yeah..she is sooo scared of him! Also lennox is in HORRIBLE physical shape! He is starving and is missing hair and is covered in scabs! And any living creature should be allowed to defend themselves! Which Lennox has never done and he is being severely abused and neglected- They cannot even give him BASIC care! This dog warden should be stoned and should not be in any position of power- Especially over innocent, trusting animals! She is a LIAR! You can see the photos of her, MANY posing with lennox in VULNERABLE positions! And now she just ABUSES him! He was NEVER taken in for being dangerous! It was because he was thought to be a pitbull- And when it was proven he is not- That is when the warden lied to just destroy him- And I tell you she probably lied because she had got him in horrible shape and didn't want to get in trouble! Such a POS. I AM irish and I am ASHAMED of all of you involved in this decision. You have lost a TON of tourists and a ton of business over this. This wasn't a dog who killed a person- It was a dog who was just a breed you are racist against and it turns out he isn't even that breed! And he isn't dangerous- Have Victoria stillwell evaluate him and AWAY from his abusers! Any dog can be defensive when he is abused and in PAIN! That is NORMAL! Let Victoria take him for a few weeks. She is one of the few who would make an HONEST evaluation. We don't believe your evaluators. SHAME ON YOU IRELAND!
vericker | Jun 12, 2012, 09:36 PM EDT
I think this is a disgrace. My grandparents were born and married in Dublin and I am ashamed that the high courts will not listen to reason. This is a beloved pet, not some stray that attacked anyone. This dog has done nothing to deserve this. Shame on all of you, and I hope you meet Lenox at the Rainbow Bridge!
sirpeter | Jun 12, 2012, 07:17 PM EDT
Gil-Ann.The payment for the flight would save a human life in Africa or South America.America kills nearly 10 billion animals a year.As you said they are all Gods animals.Why don't you picket McDonnells?Northern Ireland’s most senior judges ruled that this dog was a danger to the public and should be put down.According to those in authority the dog is a savage beast.A quick painless death.Proper order.
teddybear | Jun 12, 2012, 06:45 PM EDT
Hopefully these people will come to their senses before they destroy a beautiful little creature.
dianna | Jun 12, 2012, 06:27 PM EDT
Words have failed me on this. Just makes my heart heavy and hurt. Shame on all of you involved in the final decision. That woman that started all this has alot of explaining to do in the end. I am sorry they failed you Lennox.
sghicks | Jun 12, 2012, 06:21 PM EDT
So this law allows dogs to be rounded up and gassed based simply on their breeds? I don't think I'd be violating the Godwin Rule if I started throwing the word 'Nazi' around, would I? My heart goes out to the Barnes family, and I guarantee my money will never find its way to NI in any shape or form.
Gil-Ann | Jun 12, 2012, 05:28 PM EDT
I'll book a flight over there ASAP to bring this dog back to the USA with me. PLEASE, I BEG YOU, PLEASE DO NOT KILL HIM. PLEASE DO NOT KILL HIM. 1000s of animal lovers want his life to be saved. What will it take? PLEASE I WILL TAKE HIM.
ladylinda | Jun 12, 2012, 05:25 PM EDT
i am disgusted with the decision that the judge has made on innocent lennox.lennox had done nothing wrong at all so WHY KILL A INNOCENT DOG.why did the dog warden who lied on oath not get done shes the one who spread the lies in court sworn on oath but she lied through her teeth.im disgusted with the way this case on innocent lennox has been handled and i hope that karma gets them all back all involed in the decision on lennox. they have caused alot of stress to lennoxs family and also animal lovers around the world.and i certainly WONT BE GOING TO IRELAND IN THE FUTURE IF THIS IS WHAT THEY DO TO DOGS AND THATS KILL THEM WHEN THEY ARE INNOCENT SHAME ON THE BCC
mona19595 | Jun 12, 2012, 05:24 PM EDT
Is this a communist country where if the law wants they can come into YOUR home and take your dog. Keep the dog in filthy conditions because of what he looks like and then decide after 2 years of no contact with people to put him down? This does not make sense at all.......I am from the USA I Will ADOPT LENNOX TELL ME HOW TO DO IT AND I WILL. THIS IS HIGHLY UNJUST THERE IS NO REASONING TO PUT THIS DOG DOWN. THIS IS LIKE A BELFAST COUNCIL MEMBER LOOKING LIKE HITLER ARE YOU GOING TO PUT HIM DOWN BECAUSE OF HIS LOOKS? DISGRACEFUL VERY, VERY DISGRACEFUL I AM APPALLED AT THIS VERY DISCRIMINATORY BOARD. PLEASE I WILL GIVE HIM A HOME BUT SADLY THIS DOES NOTHING FOR THE FAMILY WHO LOVES THIS DOG. AND TO BE SO CRUEL NO BE ALLOWED TO SEE THEIR DOG BEFORE HE IS EUTHANIZED.....THIS IS THE CRUELEST THING I HAVE EVER HEARD!!!! I AM OUTRAGED AND WILL CONTACT THE ASPCA IN THE USA TO SEE WHAT CAN BE DONE!
Gil-Ann | Jun 12, 2012, 04:54 PM EDT
How can you do this? How can you be soooooooooo EVIL...do you not care about God's animals? Look at all the animal lovers protesting this. This needs to get out on "World Press News" asap...! Lennox does not deserve to die but deserves to either be taken in by a rescue in the USA or returned to his family. All I can say to you is what you are doing is barbaric and cruel. For those involved in this unjust decision, you are simply "The Devil in Human Form"..............!!!! This is unforgiveable. I hope it goes on CNN and all over the world. You are making a HUGE MISTAKE. Pitbulls are sweet dogs and loving family members. You are killing a family member that is cherished. How can you live with yourself?
sunshine8590 | Jun 12, 2012, 04:51 PM EDT
PEOPLE WHO MURDER HAVE NO HEART FOR ANIMALS . BELFAST I WILL BE SURPRISE TO SEE PEOPLE STAND BY YOU. U MURDER ANIMALS AND WHO EVER STANDS BY YOU WILL ONE DAY PAY THE PRICE. YOU SHOULD PAY FOR KILLING OWNERS DOGS JUST BECAUSE OF THE TYPE OF BREED. MAYBE IF YOU THOUGHT OF DOGS AS MONEY YOU HAVE TO GIVE TO THE OWNERS WHO HAVE THESE DOGS. A MILLION OF DOLLARS SHOULD BE GIVEN TO THESE DOG OWNERS WHO HAVE TO LOSE THERE DOGS BECAUSE OF THE BREED IT IS.
Pwandersee | Jun 12, 2012, 03:29 PM EDT
This is absolutely the most barbaric thing I've ever heard of. This dog has done now harm. There are countless lies that were told and verified as lies during these hearings. And it seems to me that they are either trying to flex their muscles or prove that they are the law. And in the meantime a life is going to be taken because of it. Its bad enough that they seem justified in killing Lennox, but to not even allow him to see his family is the worst. There is a child involved here as well who is bonded with this baby. I can't even begin to wrap my mind around this whole thing! I was going to bring a group of approximately 25 people there to visit as well. Considering my husband is Irish and my distant relatives are as well. We have cancelled the trip, and I for one am so ashamed at this point. I will be boycotting everything and anything as well that comes from N Ireland and the Belfast area. The line has been drawn in the sand, not by me or by us, but by the officials there.
Boxerangel | Jun 12, 2012, 03:26 PM EDT
you sick evil ppl....words fail me...lennox is and always was innocent ..................
Buttergon | Jun 12, 2012, 03:18 PM EDT
Setting aside my absolute disgust with BCC and your legal industry for the moment... It is an objective fact that there is an error in law in this latest ruling, just as there were errors in law in Rogers'rulings. Rogers knowingly allowed perjured testimony from Lightfoot, and these judges have condoned this. Further, despite the fact that his testimony was bought by BCC, Tallack's testimony cannot carry any legal weight since he is neither a behaviourist nor qualified under your law to speak as an expert witness. Tallack lacks both the required expertise and the required education. The qualified experts contradicted Tallack's testimony. This ruling is not only morally reprehensible, it is legally wrong. To compound their disgusting violations of morality and integrity, BCC is refusing to allow the family to say goodbye to Lennox. Are the real bullies in this case afraid that the family will hold them to account for their two-year neglect, deprivation and mistreatment of Lennox? If there is anything credible to your legal system at all (but, obviously, there isn't) BCC and the people who have subjected Lennox to such criminal conditions will be charged with animal cruelty.
lynne66 | Jun 12, 2012, 02:27 PM EDT
I will never visit Belfast, Will never buy any products made in/exported from Belfast; I will never put any money into their economy. I have cancelled a trip which was planned for there and I doubt I will be the only one. Belfast Council are Fascist Dictators and Lying MURDERERS. I hope they rot in hell. Karma will come for them one day.
keathr | Jun 12, 2012, 02:24 PM EDT
I am 3/4 Cherokee and 1/4 Irish. I find the whitemans decison to be one of the most insane decisions that theycould have made. They should have allowed Lennox to be flown out of the country to safety where he could live his lif out as a loved pet. I dont know much about Irelands government but if this is an idicator of the legal sysem there I dont want to know anythng about that part of my heritiage
ashamed2BIrish | Jun 12, 2012, 02:02 PM EDT
STUPID EVIL FECKING POS. They LIE. This dog is NOT a danger - it was PROVEN that the dog warden LIED and so did the "expert" handler. If the dog has a personality problme now it was CAUSED by the way he has been treated - worst is that these POWER HUNGRY, MACHO, AREN'T I IMPORTANT, SOULESS IDIOTS won't even let the GRIEVING FAMILY see their dog before they MURDER Him. ASHAMED TO BE IRISH
claridge | Jun 12, 2012, 01:55 PM EDT
Smacks of being a PC decision to me. I'm no expert at all but it seems to me that don't most dogs behave how they are treated by humans. They are too frightened of general consensus that all 'those type of breeds' are dangerous. I feel so sorry for the Barnes family, but most of all I feel sorry for Lennox for the way he has been kept the last 2 years it will probably be a release for the poor boy. But just in case there is someone with sense reading these comments etc, please see commonsense in this case!!!
nmbassetlover | Jun 12, 2012, 01:38 PM EDT
What a HORRIBLE decision by the Council. I don't know how the Council members are chosen - but I hope the citizens can throw them out to show their disgust for this decision. My heart is breaking for Lennox's owners and I hope they can find some peace. I do know one thing - you will NEVER see any of my tourist dollars. I don't think anyone who respects the animals we share our world with could want to support this decision.
acadiansiren | Jun 12, 2012, 01:33 PM EDT
This is disgusting ! I'm really sick to my stomach over this .Dealing out death like its the answer to everything.I hope this judge is treated with as much kindness in his life as he has afforded Lennox .If there is anyway to reverse this please let us know.He should be more then ashamed with himself.
srmiller | Jun 12, 2012, 01:14 PM EDT
Absolutely ludacris . . . what a bunch pompous asses! Rather than destroying Lennox, why can't he be given to someone else in a differernt city, territory, country where these ridiculous laws don't exist?
Biffo | Jun 12, 2012, 01:14 PM EDT
Shameful. There has been a lot of controversy, accusations of lying & perjury. Belfast City Council & their employees are not coming out of it well at all. There's also quite a determined boycott of Belfast by Lennox supporters which I can see affecting the tourist trade. I'm making the point on FB pages that this is happening in Northern Ireland, not the Republic. The Council should have backed down about 18 months ago & let the dog go home then but I think their egos got in the way - you know how it is with petty officaldom. What they'll have now is a dead martyr dog & lost tourism & maybe lost business as well. The people who'll be hurt (apart from Lennox' grieving family) will be the Belfast/N.I. man in the street with less tourism - the Council will continue in their secure jobs & their secure pensions.
Sheila | Jun 12, 2012, 01:08 PM EDT
This is crazy just plain and simple. The family has been made to wait for this stupid decision. Is this to say when a baby is born from a parent that is bad then this child will also be the same, and might just as well go ahead and put them in prison or death row the minute they are born? What kind of mind thinks this way about an animal just because of part tof the gene pool. CRAZY ASS STUPID THINKING IS WHAT THE WORLD HAS GONE TO. PRAYING GOD WILL SOON TAKE CARE OF STUPID THINKING PEOPLE.