For Milton couple, legal battle continues despite “potentially dangerous” ruling

A Milton couple is now embroiled in a legal battle with Delaware Animal Care and Control,” and they may soon face a trial.

According to Georgetown attorney Mike Abram’s office, he entered a not guilty plea for Jake and Nancy Smith at their arraignment hearing. A trial date should be set within about a week.

The charges stem from an incident in March, when their dog, Millie, was taken away by animal control for getting loose during a walk and allegedly biting their neighbors dog. A few weeks later, a state dog panel determined that Millie was potentially dangerous and she returned home with certain limitations.

Despite the state panel’s decision, the Smiths still face a number of charges, including possession of a dangerous dog. Jake faces a charge of hindering prosecution and Nancy has been charged with failure to maintain a dog on a leash.

In a separate case, the Smith’s are counter-suing Delaware Animal Care and Control for lacking legal authority to obtain search and seizure warrants.