Prosecutors closely supervise investigation into Carnikava dog attack

Latvia’s State Police opened criminal proceedings on the day of the incident, September 4, after two dogs attacked kindergarten children in Carnikava, LSM reported. The investigation is being conducted under strict supervision by prosecutors.

The case is currently classified under Chapter 20 of the Criminal Law, concerning offences against general safety and public order. Investigators are following an investigation plan and instructions from the supervising prosecutor, in cooperation with the municipal police and the Food and Veterinary Service.

“The Prosecutor’s Office is actively supervising the progress of the criminal proceedings, and all necessary procedural actions are being carried out during the pre-trial investigation,” said Dainis Krasts, a prosecutor at the Pierīga Prosecutor’s Office.

Krasts said the investigation must take into account the interests and psychological condition of the injured children while maintaining a balance between protecting them and conducting a complete, objective and comprehensive investigation. Information about the investigation can be released only to the extent that it does not harm the interests of the criminal proceedings, he said.

The Prosecutor’s Office and State Police said they were handling the case with the utmost care. Police have been collecting evidence since September 4 and have ordered the necessary expert examinations. Their results will be important for making further procedural decisions.

Because children were injured, investigative actions are being planned and carried out with particular attention to their age and psychological condition. An individual approach is being provided to each injured child.

To avoid retraumatising the children, the severity of their injuries in the forensic medical examination has been determined using medical documents from the Emergency Medical Service and healthcare institutions.