A surprising turn of events unfolded during the recent Limerick Petty Sessions, as Mr Hickson, a respected magistrate, took an unexpected role in the proceedings. Rather than occupying his customary position in the center chair, Mr Hickson found himself in the witness-box, seeking a rather unconventional order from his fellow magistrates—namely, the authorization to destroy a dog that had bitten him on the leg.

Mr Hickson recounted the incident, explaining that the dog had bitten him while he was cycling to the court. The unexpected encounter had left him with a leg wound that required treatment at the hospital. However, the saga did not end there. It appears that yet another dog had taken a keen interest in Mr Hickson, as it charged towards his good leg. Quick thinking and rapid pedaling on his part managed to thwart this second dog’s attempt, sparing his uninjured limb.

With the gravity of the situation laid bare, Mr Hickson appealed to his fellow magistrates for an order that would lead to the dog’s destruction. The magistrates duly granted his request, recognizing the potential threat that the dog posed to public safety.

This unusual sequence of events underscores the diverse matters that can find their way into the courtrooms of Limerick. From the usual array of cases to more unique incidents like a magistrate requesting the disposal of a dog, the Limerick Petty Sessions continue to provide a platform for justice to be served, even in cases that may seem out of the ordinary.

Constabulary Gazette (Dublin) – Saturday 14 April 1906