A shocking incident of a 12-year-old boy being attacked by an XL Bully that escaped from a house in Holyhead has left the community in disbelief. The incident, which occurred on May 15, 2024, saw the boy sustain serious injuries after encountering the dog named Hugo, who had gotten out when the owner’s son inadvertently left a side door open while going outside to play. The boy was playing football in the area when he heard a growl behind him and turned to find the large dog approaching him without a collar or lead. Despite trying to run away, the boy slipped and fell, leading the dog to pounce on his back and bite down on his neck, causing deep wounds on his arm.
Describing the harrowing ordeal in court, the prosecutor explained how the boy had to protect himself by curling up in a foetal position and covering his head with his arms as the dog continued its attack. Despite managing to get up and seek help from a neighbour, the boy was left traumatised by the experience, expressing his fear and difficulty in coping with the aftermath. The incident not only left physical scars but also psychological trauma, making it challenging for the boy to engage in activities with his friends due to lingering fear and anxiety.
In a court hearing, the dog’s owner, Meacalla Newcombe, admitted to being responsible for a dog dangerously out of control, leading to serious injuries to the victim. Despite owning an XL Bull Mastiff, which falls under prohibited breeds, Newcombe possessed an exemption certificate for the dog, indicating that it was legally owned. The judge issued a 12-month community order for Newcombe along with 100 hours of unpaid work and ordered her to pay £1,000 in compensation to the victim.
While the judge acknowledged that the dog did not pose an immediate threat to the public following an assessment, safety precautions were imposed, including a destruction order to ensure the implementation of necessary safety measures. Newcombe, represented by Jo Maxwell, expressed remorse over the incident and apologised to the victim and his family, emphasising the dog’s status as a cherished family pet. The court recognised the isolated nature of the incident and the owner’s efforts to address the situation promptly.
Addressing the severity of the attack, the judge highlighted the importance of preventive measures to avoid such incidents in the future. While the boy continues to grapple with the emotional impact of the attack and awaits counselling to address his trauma, the community is reminded of the significance of responsible pet ownership and ensuring the safety of both animals and individuals in the vicinity. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the need for vigilance and caution in handling pets, particularly those belonging to breeds with specific regulations to prevent harm and maintain community safety.