By Christopher Ross/Addison Independent

Editor’s note: This story is second in a series. The first, “Bear-hunting hounds attack hikers and pup,” was published in the Mountain Times, Nov. 6.

Members of the bear-hound hunting community, along with state officials, have expressed shock over an Oct. 19 incident on the Catamount Trail in Ripton, in which five bear-hounds attacked a couple and their puppy.

Such an incident has never happened before, say supporters, who characterize their sport as having a positive culture with strict practices and high standards.

Brandon resident Wayne Newton, whose bear-hounds were involved with the incident, has been charged with a criminal violation of 10 App. V.S.A. § 7.63a, which reads, “A person shall not take black bear with the aid of dogs unless the person is in control of the dog or dogs.” According to Vermont statutes, “Control of Dog/Dogs” means “the transportation, loading…