Why do I have to appear if the dog owner files an appeal on the nuisance noise complaint citation they were issued?
Our department issues the nuisance noise complaint citations on the behalf of the reporting party. The law does not allow for “hearsay” testimony. Since our officers are not reporting parties and not neighboring inhabitants within 200 yards of the dog owner’s home they cannot be used as witnesses and are not permitted to testify. Since you are the complainant and you witnessed the conduct, the law requires that you file the complaint and testify at any hearing. In addition, the Constitution entitles an accused to face and cross-examine his/her accuser.
