(A) A violation of any of the provisions of this chapter shall constitute a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $50, or imprisonment for not more than 30 days, or both, as provided in G.S. § 14-4. Payment of a fine imposed in criminal proceedings pursuant to this section does not relieve a person of the liability for fees and/or penalties imposed under this chapter.
(B) A violation of any of the provisions of this chapter shall also subject the offender to a civil penalty of $25. The penalty for a second violation shall be $50, and for a third violation and subsequent violations the penalty shall be $100. If the offender fails to pay this penalty within 15 calendar days after being cited for a violation, the penalty may be recovered by the town in a civil action in the nature of a debt.
(C) Each day that any violation continues after a person has been notified that such violation exists and that he or she is subject to the penalties specified in divisions (A) and (B) of this section shall constitute a separate offense.
(D) This chapter may also be enforced by any appropriate equitable action, including injunctions or orders of abatement.
(E) The town may enforce this chapter by any one or any combination of the foregoing remedies.
(F) Unwanted animals may be given to Pitt County Animal Control or the town police department to be adopted or destroyed per state statute.
(G) In order for the owner to redeem an animal, such owner must first show that the rabies vaccination tag has been procured. In addition, the owner shall pay a penalty of $25 for allowing the animal to run at- large. The owner must also pay $10 for the capture and care for the animal.
(Ord. 04-05-20, passed 5-9-05; Am. Ord. 04-05-25, passed 6-13-05)