Seizure and ongoing holding of English Staffordshire (brindle), 12 February 2025
Dear Brimbank City Council,
I am lodging a formal request for documents under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Vic). I seek access to the following materials relating to the seizure, custody, and ongoing management of an English Staffordshire (brindle), seized on or around 12 February 2025.
1. Incident Reports
All formal incident reports prepared by Council staff or Animal Management Officers regarding the seizure, including narrative of events, involved officers, location, and basis for seizure.
2. Officer Notes
All handwritten, typed, or digital notes made by Council staff or contractors relating to the seizure, transport, handling, or welfare observations of the English Staffordshire (brindle) from 1 February 2025 to present.
3. Photographic or Video Records
All photographs and/or video recordings taken in connection with the seizure, including images of the dog, location, or any supporting material.
4. Seizure Authorisation Documentation
All documentation authorising the seizure under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 (Vic), including seizure forms, legal justification, internal approvals, and delegation of powers.
5. Ranger Logs / Field Attendance Records
All ranger logs, shift reports, or field attendance documentation showing arrival/departure times, tasks undertaken, and officers or contractors present at the seizure site.
6. Notice Issued Under the Domestic Animals Act
A copy of the official notice issued under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 (Vic), including date of issue, method of delivery, and content regarding seizure grounds and rights of review.
7. Communications Between Council and Lost Dogs’ Home
All written communications (emails, letters, memos) between Brimbank City Council and the Lost Dogs’ Home relating to the care, management, or legal handling of the English Staffordshire (brindle) from 1 February 2025 to present.
8. Veterinary Assessments, Health Records, and Medication Logs
All veterinary records, medication logs, behavioural assessments, and welfare documentation for the English Staffordshire (brindle) while held under Council authority, including records created or held by the Lost Dogs’ Home or third-party providers.
9. Documents Related to Visitation Requests or Denial
All internal or external documents discussing visitation rights, requests, or refusals, including any reasoning or conditions set by Council.
10. Destruction Orders or Planning Documents
Any documentation (internal or external) relating to the proposed or actual destruction, euthanasia, or legal outcome planning for the English Staffordshire (brindle), including drafts, timelines, or procedural instructions.
11. Legal Correspondence or Briefings
All correspondence between Council staff and internal or external legal representatives relating to the seizure, custody, prosecution, or planned outcome of the English Staffordshire (brindle). I understand parts may be subject to legal privilege.
12. Complaint Records or Third-Party Witness Reports
Any complaints, witness statements, or third-party reports received by Council that contributed to or were considered in the decision to seize the English Staffordshire (brindle). Personal information may be redacted in accordance with FOI exemptions.