A 32-year-old Canberra man has been remanded in custody after facing court over allegations he violently assaulted a pet dog and attempted to pour petrol on the animal.
Court hears details of alleged attack
Matthew Nathan Peter Hogan was denied bail in the ACT Magistrates Court on Monday, January 5, 2026. The court heard Hogan was on bail and serving a suspended sentence at the time of the alleged offences.
Police prosecutors told the court the incident occurred on Sunday, January 4. It is alleged Hogan entered a backyard by jumping a fence before kicking and punching a bullmastiff in the face and back. The allegations further state he then attempted to pour petrol on the dog.
The court was informed that Hogan co-owned the dog with another person and had gone to the property to be with the animal.
Defence cites loneliness and intoxication
Aboriginal Legal Service duty lawyer Damian Lloveda argued for Hogan's release on bail. Mr Lloveda told the court his client had significant issues with alcohol and had consumed an entire bottle of Jim Beam bourbon on the night in question.
The defence lawyer said Hogan was "finding himself lonely" and had gone to the backyard during a "mental health crisis", seeking the presence of his dog. Mr Lloveda suggested the dog reacted aggressively when Hogan jumped the fence, and his client's actions were "in, perhaps, self defence".
"Alleged violence towards animals can be a sign of possible further aggressions ... but there is no violence towards humans here," Mr Lloveda submitted to the court.
Bail denied due to violent history
Magistrate Jane Campbell refused Hogan's application for conditional release without requiring further submission from the prosecution, which had opposed bail.
In denying bail, Magistrate Campbell pointed to Hogan's "very long history of offences of violence and dishonesty". Hogan did not enter pleas to the charges of animal cruelty and resisting a territory public official.
Police also alleged that during his arrest, Hogan became agitated, pulled away from officers, and kicked himself off the back of a police vehicle.
Hogan is scheduled to reappear in court later in January 2026.
