A Nottingham man accused of dognapping has denied wrongdoing

Mead also pleaded not guilty to attempted murder, grievous bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon, namely a hammer.

The injured woman, who is in her 40s, was taken to hospital but Nottinghamshire Police said her injuries were “not life-threatening”.

The offense of taking a dog to keep it away from the person in lawful control, or “dognapping”, became an offense when the Pet Kidnapping Act (2024) came into force in August.

This crime carries a maximum prison sentence of five years, while burglary carries a maximum prison sentence of fourteen years.

Mr Mead, wearing a gray prison sweatshirt, appeared in court via video link from HMP Nottingham and spoke only to confirm his name and outline his pleas.

Judge Stuart Rafferty KC remanded Mr Mead, of Welstead Avenue in Aspley, Nottingham, in custody until his trial on March 24 at the same court.