The Papeete Criminal Court has sentenced the owners of dogs responsible for the tragic death of an 87-year-old woman in Tahiti, French Polynesia. The incident, which occurred in May 2020, involved a pack of five dogs, including pit bull crosses, that attacked the victim during her morning walk in Pirae. Despite attempts by bystanders to intervene, the woman succumbed to her injuries before help arrived. The court handed down suspended sentences ranging from 4 months to 3 years for the dog owners, who were previously facing ten years in prison for involuntary manslaughter. The case has sparked outrage and calls for stricter regulations regarding dog ownership and public safety in the region. The victim's family expressed their grief and frustration, urging politicians to take action to prevent such tragedies from happening again.
- The family of the victim, identified as Valérie Layoussaint, emphasized the need for immediate changes in laws governing dog ownership in Tahiti. They highlighted the high number of stray dogs in French Polynesia, which is estimated to be around 500,000, nearly double the human population. This alarming statistic has led to frequent incidents of dog bites and attacks, raising concerns about public safety. In July 2023, another tragic event occurred when a homeless individual was killed by stray dogs on the island of Raiatea. The community is now calling for comprehensive measures to address the growing issue of dangerous dogs and to ensure the safety of residents, particularly the elderly and vulnerable.
