Billionaire media baron Richard Desmond has been fined £10,000 after his dog bit two people on a mansion-lined road in north London earlier this month.
The 71-year-old, who previously owned The Express, The Star and OK magazine, admitted two offences under the Dangerous Dogs Act at Willesden Magistrates’ Court.
His German Shepherd, Summer, was ordered to wear a muzzle when out in public following the incident on The Bishop’s Avenue in East Finchley which left Carl Allen and Mark Webber injured.
The two men were working on the road, dubbed ‘Billionaires Row’, when the dog attacked them out of the blue, the court heard.
Prosecutor Martin Edwards read a statement from Mr Allen, saying: ‘The dog chased me and I called the police. It has bitten me through my work trousers.’
Mr Webber said: ‘The dog lunged at me I got a puncture wound to my leg.’
Defending Desmond, Philip Evans KC said the dog had been ‘startled’ before the incident, possibly by the sound of a sliding van door.
He added: ‘He is a man of thoroughly good character, there have been no other incidents involving Summer. There is considerable evidence he has taken this seriously.’
Magistrate Mark Jabbitt told Desmond: ‘I accept you are a prominent businessman and philanthropist, but you are responsible for your dog.
‘There was a lapse in judgement. You have exercised responsible leadership since then.’
He added: ‘It does merit a fine. For each of the offences there will be a fine of £5,000.’
Desmond was also ordered to pay each of the victims £1,000 in compensation, in addition to a £2,000 victim surcharge and £85 in costs.
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