Man to face trial for trying to drown dog in a Drogheda river

A man charged with attempting to drown a Jack Russell terrier by allegedly tying a five-litre drum of water to its neck using cable ties has been sent for trial in the circuit court.

Ivo Sprogis (35) appeared before judge John Coughlan at Drogheda District Court on Friday, where he was served with a book of evidence.

The defendant, of The Park, Martello Village, Bryanstown in Co Louth, is charged with with the attempted drowning of a Jack Russell dog on July 19th, 2016 at the Boyne Canal in Drogheda, Co Louth.

On hearing an outline of the alleged facts, the judge directed the case be heard at the Circuit Court due to the seriousness of the charge.

Inspector Brendan Cadden said at 7.20am on the Tuesday July 19th, gardaí were alerted to an incident where a man was seen at the canal at Oldbridge House.

“It is alleged the defendant was out walking the dog and allegedly threw the dog into the river,” said Insp Caddan.

Insp Cadden said it is alleged a five litre drum of water was attached to the terrier’s neck using cable ties.

He said passersby alerted members of Drogheda River Rescue of a dog in distress in the canal.

They managed to rescue the terrier. The dog was taken to the vet and while distressed, it was not injured.

The defendant has not yet indicated how he intends to plead.

The case will be mentioned during the next sitting of Dundalk Circuit Criminal Court on October 3rd.