The Maui News - The Maui Humane Society is taking a “zero tolerance” approach to leash law violations in the wake of recent dog attacks and an increasing number of complaints about dogs running loose in neighborhoods and on beaches.“Incidents of leash law complaints are on the increase,” said Maui Humane Society Director of Animal Control Aimee Anderson. “This is a social issue, and it’s a public safety issue. It’s a property issue. It’s a health issue.” Starting immediately, she said, any leash law violation that’s confirmed or observed by law enforcement will result in a citation carrying a penalty of up to $500. In the past, she said, animal control officers first have given warnings to some owners of unleashed dogs as a way of trying to provide education about the law requiring that dogs be kept under restraint. A citation would be issued if another violation occurred. “Taking that tactic with regard to leash law has not been particularly effective,” Anderson said. “Education can only do so much.” She said owners can be cited based on photographs of their dogs running loose if the person who takes the photographs is willing to testify should the violation be contested. A photograph must clearly show the animal and indicate the date, time and location the photo was taken. Enough information must be provided so the Maui Humane Society can determine the identity of the dog and its owner.