Aspiring rapper jailed for owning XL bully dogs that mauled mother-in-law two days after ban

Aspiring Rapper Jailed for 10 Years Over XL Bully Attack on Mother-in-Law

Ashley Warren, 41, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for failing to control two XL bully dogs that fatally attacked his mother-in-law, Esther Martin, 68, just two days after the breed was banned in Essex. The incident occurred on February 3, 2024, when Martin was left alone with the dogs at his home in Jaywick.

Attack Details and Legal Proceedings

Warren had asked Martin to care for the two adult XL bully dogs and eight puppies while he traveled to London for a music video shoot. The dogs, which had not been walked for four weeks, inflicted severe injuries, including bites to her back, chest, abdomen, head, and all four limbs. Police tasered the animals before entering the residence safely.

“The incident was foreseeable and indeed had been foreseen by those who sought to warn you about the dogs,” said Judge Mr Justice Johnson during sentencing.

Warren was convicted of owning a dog dangerously out of control, which led to injury resulting in death. He also faced charges for having a knife in a public place.

Family Impact and Testimonies

Esther Martin’s daughter, Kelly Fretwell, described the harrowing experience of hearing her mother’s screams during the attack. “The sounds and images will haunt me forever,” she said. “His actions—and inactions—have caused me to lose a mother and a friend. I have hatred towards him and wish he’d never come into contact with my family.”

Sonia Martin-Coppen, another daughter, recalled her mother as a “great laugh” with a “wicked sense of humour.” She added: “She will be remembered for being a great friend to many, a sister, an aunt, a mother, and a great-grandmother. But to us, she was and always will be our mum.”

Police Statement and Case Significance

Essex Police highlighted the complexity of the investigation, noting it was the first of its kind in the UK following new legislation targeting XL bully dogs. “No sentence can ever bring Esther back, but I hope this result will help her family move forward,” stated a spokesperson. “Our thoughts today are with her loved ones, who have endured a dark chapter.”

Footage released after Warren’s conviction showed the aftermath of the attack, capturing the moment officers entered his home to secure the dangerous dogs. The police emphasized Martin’s vulnerability, as she was only 5ft 3in tall and had mobility challenges, with no prior experience handling the breed alone.

Prosecution’s Argument

“This was a ‘tragedy waiting to happen’ considering Martin’s size and health against the powerful adult XL bullys,” said Christopher Paxton KC, representing the prosecution.

The case underscored the risks associated with the banned breed, with the court recognizing the preventable nature of the tragedy. Warren’s sentencing aims to send a message about accountability for such incidents.