A woman has pleaded guilty to being in charge of an out-of-control XL bully dog that killed a 19-year-old woman by biting her neck in Bristol. The dog named Prince fatally injured Morgan Dorsett on February 26 last year. Kelcie Reed, 24, entered the plea in court and was released on conditional bail until sentencing on July 9.
A woman has admitted being in charge of a dangerously out of control XL bully dog when it killed a teenager by biting her on the neck.
The XL bully named Prince fatally injured Morgan Dorsett, 19, inside a flat at Cobhorn Drive, Withywood, Bristol, on February 26 last year. Ms Dorsett, from Shrewsbury, Shropshire, suffered fatal bites to her neck during the incident. Emergency services were called to the address at 7.19pm but despite their efforts, Ms Dorsett was pronounced dead at the scene. The dog was later put down, police confirmed.
In court today, Kelcie Reed, 24, pleaded guilty to being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control, causing injury resulting in death. Reed, of Barrowmead Road, Bristol, spoke only to enter her guilty plea. She was released on conditional bail until sentencing on July 9, and must not own or be in control of any dog under any circumstances.
Judge Martin Picton ordered a pre-sentence report and told Reed's barrister: 'She must understand, as I am sure you've explained, the strong likelihood of immediate custody on the next occasion.
' Sarah Regan, defending, told the court the plea was entered 'on a basis', meaning that while her client pleaded guilty she disputed part of the prosecution's case. 'My learned friend has quite properly indicated that the Crown would require two weeks to consider that,' she added. An inquest previously heard that Ms Dorsett died from injuries to her face and neck.
In an emotional tribute to his stepdaughter after her death, Matthew Travis wrote: 'Words can't describe how much our hearts are breaking at the moment. The loveable rogue who knew what she wants and also how to get it. That cheeky smile would win me over every bl***y time even to the point you would have me making you pasta at 2am.
' Mr Travis added: 'You could do no wrong in my eyes and will always be my favourite (as you would enjoy telling everyone). In our hearts you will hold a place no one else will ever fill.
' The case has reignited debate about the regulation of XL bully dogs, which have been involved in a series of attacks across the UK. Under the Dangerous Dogs Act, owners of such breeds face strict liability if their dogs cause injury or death. Statistics show that the number of dog attacks has risen in recent years, with XL bullies accounting for a disproportionate share of serious incidents.
Animal welfare groups have called for better enforcement of existing laws and for prospective owners to undergo mandatory training. The court proceedings were brief, lasting only a few minutes, as Reed entered her plea and the judge set the sentencing date. The victim's family, who attended the hearing, declined to comment outside court. The case has drawn significant public attention, with many expressing sympathy for the Dorsett family and calling for justice.
The upcoming sentencing is expected to result in a custodial sentence, given the severity of the offence. Legal experts note that the maximum penalty for such an offence is life imprisonment, though sentences vary depending on circumstances. The incident highlights the potential dangers of owning powerful dogs without proper control. Prince, the dog involved, was described by neighbours as aggressive and had reportedly been involved in previous incidents.
Police investigations revealed that Reed had taken the dog into her flat despite warnings about its behaviour. The tragic death of Morgan Dorsett serves as a somber reminder of the responsibilities that come with dog ownership. As the community mourns, the legal process continues to seek accountability for the loss of a young life. The case will be closely watched as it progresses towards sentencing in July.
Until then, Reed remains under strict conditions, prohibited from owning or handling any dog. The judge's remarks about the likelihood of immediate custody indicate the seriousness with which the court views such offences. The pre-sentence report will assess Reed's background and the circumstances of the attack, providing information for the final sentencing decision. The family of Morgan Dorsett hopes that justice will be served and that such tragedies can be prevented in the future.
The broader societal conversation about dangerous dogs and owner responsibility is likely to continue in the wake of this case
XL Bully Dog Attack Fatal Dog Bite Guilty Plea Bristol Crime Dangerous Dogs Act
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