Man previously accused of “catch by dog” pleads not guilty to burglary

A man who is being described as the first person to be charged with a “dog catch” has pleaded not guilty to a more serious charge of burglary after a dog was stolen and a woman was left seriously injured.

Julian Mead, 40, is accused of taking the dog on October 1 after emergency services were called to Bells Lane in Cinderhill, Nottingham, just before 9.30pm to find a woman with serious injuries.

The defendant, of Wellstead Avenue, Asple, Nottingham, appeared at Nottingham Crown Court on Thursday charged with attempted murder, grievous bodily harm, possession of a weapon of war, namely a hammer, and burglary.

He pleaded not guilty to all four charges.

Last month, law enforcement officials said Mead was charged with taking a dog with the intent to keep it from a person in lawful control, or “dog capture,” and that it was the first such charge since the Pet Theft Act of 2024 took effect. .). August.

The crime carries a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison, and burglary – up to 14 years in prison.

Mead, who was wearing a gray prison-style sweatshirt, appeared in court via video link from HMP Nottingham and spoke only to confirm his name and state his pleas.

Judge Stuart Rafferty KC remanded the accused in custody pending his trial on March 24 at the same court.