A woman has been warned she could face jail after admitting she was in charge of a dangerously out of control XL Bully dog that killed a teenager in Shrewsbury. Kelcie Reed, 24, pleaded guilty to being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control, causing injury resulting in death, during a brief hearing at Bristol Crown Court on May 27.
Fatal Attack in Bristol Flat
The XL Bully, named Prince, fatally injured 19-year-old Morgan Dorsett inside a flat at Cobhorn Drive, Withywood, Bristol, on February 26 last year. Ms Dorsett, from Shrewsbury, suffered fatal bites to her neck. The dog was later euthanised.
Reed, of Barrowmead Road, Lawrence Weston, Bristol, spoke only to enter her guilty plea. Judge Martin Picton ordered a pre-sentence report ahead of sentencing on July 9.
Disputed Facts and Bail
Sarah Regan, defending, told the court the plea was entered 'on a basis', meaning Reed disputed part of the prosecution's case. 'My learned friend has quite properly indicated that the Crown would require two weeks to consider that,' said Ms Regan. She asked for Reed's conditional bail to be extended until sentencing.
The judge warned: 'She must understand, as I am sure you have explained, there is a strong likelihood of immediate custody on the next occasion.' Ms Regan said she had informed her client. Reed was released on bail pending sentencing.
Background
The attack occurred in a flat in Withywood, a suburb of Bristol. Morgan Dorsett, a 19-year-old from Shropshire, died from neck injuries. The case highlights ongoing concerns about the dangers of XL Bully dogs, which have been involved in several fatal attacks in the UK.
