Man punched in the face after dog row at Poole park
Assault sparks after off-lead dog tangle
Police are hunting witnesses after a man walking his dog at Whitecliff Park, Poole, was punched in the face during a shocking incident on Tuesday morning, 26 December 2023.
Between 11.20am and 11.30am, the victim’s dog interacted with a black and tan terrier-type dog, both off-lead. The terrier’s owner then seized the victim’s dog, dragging it toward him while shouting and swearing.
Aggression escalates as victim punched
As the victim bent over to check on his dog, the man landed a punch to his left eye. A woman with the attacker joined in, shouting and screaming at the victim before both fled the scene.
Suspects described – police release images
- The man: White, 30s, medium build, brown hair. Clothing – black jacket, jeans, trainers.
- The woman: White, 30s, medium build, black hair in ponytail. Wearing a cream jumper, black leggings, black trainers.
Police Community Support Investigator Brett Hirst said: “This was a distressing incident for the victim. We are working hard to identify the man and woman involved.”
“We want anyone who witnessed this, or knows anything helpful, to come forward. We have images of the suspects from a distance and hope someone recognises them or their dog.”
Call Dorset Police or Crimestoppers
If you have any information, contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or ring 101, quoting occurrence number 55230201476.
Alternatively, report anonymously to charity Crimestoppers at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call 0800 555 111.
