An “American bulldog” that attacked three people on separate occasions, causing severe injuries, is set to be put down. The dog’s owner, Jamie Wilson from Anglesey, insisted it was “still a pup” and “a little softie”, but a judge ruled that due to its aggressive “temperament” and lack of training, it must be destroyed. The incidents took place in January, May, and July of 2023, Caernarfon Crown Court heard.
The dog, an “American Bulldog-type” named Loki, had been the subject of an earlier hearing. Wilson, of Waterside, Holyhead, pleaded guilty to three counts of owning a dangerously out-of-control dog causing injury. He received a suspended prison sentence of eight months. In addition to his sentence, he must adhere to a 90-day curfew and complete 150 hours of unpaid work.
Prosecutor Richard Edwards described the contact the first victim – Amanda Smith – had with the dog. After stroking it and withdrawing her hand, the dog bit her, resulting in puncture wounds. She received treatment at Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor and has since developed a fear of dogs. The second victim, Jordan Watts, encountered the dog while walking across Newry fields in Holyhead. The dog bit him on his left arm. The third individual affected was Stephanie Jones. She was bitten on her forearm by the dog while visiting Wilson at his flat.
Rosemary Proctor, defending Wilson, said he accepts responsibility for the harm caused by his lack of control over the dog. His Honour Timothy Petts, presiding at Llandudno Magistrates Court, emphasised the seriousness of the situation due to the dog’s aggression and lack of training. The judge sentenced Wilson to a suspended sentence, a 90-day curfew, rehab activities, and a ban on owning dogs. Wilson was also directed to pay compensation to each victim and the court ordered the destruction of Loki.
The judge considered the dog’s temperament unsuitable for returning to the community. Wilson expressed remorse and apologised to the victims. Wilson’s lawyer mentioned his client’s personal challenges, including chronic pain and PTSD. The court acknowledged delays in the case and Wilson’s remorse but deemed the dog’s behaviour too risky for public safety. Wilson was instructed to complete rehabilitation activities, adhere to a curfew, and was banned from owning dogs. The judge ordered compensation to the victims and the destruction of the dog due to its aggressive actions.