A 'deeply distressed' mother has accused West Midlands Police of failing to act after her nine-year-old daughter was attacked by a suspected XL Bully dog in Erdington, leaving the child with life-changing injuries that required two operations.
Eva Mangenje was rushed to hospital with deep puncture wounds to her leg and arm after the attack on Springthorpe Green on November 16 last year. She spent 11 days in Birmingham Children's Hospital undergoing two surgeries.
The incident occurred as Eva walked home from a shop with her mother, Alicia Wint. The animal ran towards Eva and began mauling her leg, according to Ms Wint.
Police Investigation
West Midlands Police launched an appeal last week to find 33-year-old Chad Cooper, who is wanted in connection with the attack. Officers said they had made 'a number of attempts' to speak to Cooper but without success.
However, Ms Wint claims the investigation has stalled. She said: 'Following the attack, both Eva and I gave statements to the police. However, several months later, I am deeply unhappy and distressed by the lack of action and accountability in this case.'
She alleged that police had been provided with the owner's name, but the owner failed to attend two voluntary interviews. 'I was informed failure to attend would result in arrest, but this has not happened. The location of the dog remains unknown.'
Mother's Concerns
Ms Wint expressed fears for public safety: 'My daughter suffered life-changing injuries, yet there appears to be no urgency or consequence, despite the known risks associated with XL Bully dogs. I feel that my daughter's case - and public safety more broadly - is being overlooked.'
She described the attack as 'extremely worrying' and called for greater accountability. 'This is a matter of public interest, particularly for families and communities affected by dangerous dogs.'
Police Response
A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: 'We need your help finding Chad Cooper, 33, from Birmingham, after a girl aged nine was attacked by a dog in Birmingham. It happened on Springthorpe Green in Erdington on November 16 last year. The girl was taken to hospital after she was bitten on her leg and arm, causing deep puncture wounds. We have made a number of attempts to speak to Cooper, and now need the public's help in finding him.'
Anyone who sees Cooper is urged to call 999 quoting 20/445485/25. Information can also be shared via 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
