If a complaint has been filed in the Municipal Court of the city against the owner of an impounded animal for a 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 chapter in addition to all impoundment fees. The court may, upon making a finding that the animal is vicious or that it represents a clear and present danger to the citizens or other animals in the community, order the animal to be destroyed in a humane manner. Surrender of an animal by the owner thereof to the Animal Control Officer does not relieve or render the owner immune from the decision of the court, nor to any fees and fines which may result from a violation of this chapter.
(Ord. 483, passed 1-27-1987; Ord. 483A, passed 3-23-1993; Ord. 483D, passed 8-27-1996)