If a complaint has been filed in city court against the owner of an impounded animal for violation of this chapter, the animal shall not be released except on the order of the court, which may also direct the owner to pay any penalties for violation of this order in addition to all impoundment fees. The court may, upon making a finding that such animal is dangerous or that it represents a clear and present danger or nuisance to the citizens or other animals in the community, order said animal to be euthanized in a humane manner. Surrender of an animal by the owner thereof to the Animal Services Division does not relieve or render the owner immune from the decision of the court, nor to the fees and fines which may result from a violation or violations of this chapter.
('68 Code, § 5-21) (Ord. 3-1989-10, passed 3-21-89; Am. Ord. 09-2016-47, passed 9-27-16; Am. Ord. 07-2021-32, passed 7-13-21)