A man has denied charges related to the fatal attack of a grandmother by his XL Bully dogs in Jaywick, Essex. Ashley Warren, 40, pleaded not guilty to owning dangerously out of control dogs that resulted in the death of 68-year-old Esther Martin. The incident occurred on February 3, 2023, just two days after the XL Bully breed was banned in England.
Key Takeaways
- Ashley Warren, 40, pleads not guilty to charges stemming from the fatal dog attack.
- Esther Martin, 68, was killed by the dogs while visiting a property in Jaywick.
- The dogs involved, named Beauty and Bear, were destroyed by police.
- Warren is set to face trial in August 2025.
Incident Overview
On February 3, 2023, Esther Martin was visiting a property in Hillman Avenue, Jaywick, when she was attacked by two XL Bully dogs owned by Ashley Warren. The attack was severe, resulting in "unsurvivable" injuries, specifically dog bite wounds to her upper right limb. Emergency services found her unresponsive at the scene.
Legal Proceedings
During a brief hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court, Warren denied two counts of owning or being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury resulting in death. He also denied having a knife at Clacton railway station on the same day as the attack. The court has scheduled a trial for August 2025, where the evidence will be presented.
Background on XL Bully Breed
The XL Bully breed was banned in England just two days before the tragic incident. This ban has raised discussions about dog ownership regulations and public safety. The breed has been associated with aggressive behavior, leading to increased scrutiny and calls for stricter laws regarding dangerous dogs.
Community Reaction
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community in Jaywick. Residents expressed their concerns about dog ownership and safety, particularly regarding breeds that have been known to exhibit aggressive tendencies. Many are calling for more stringent regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Conclusion
As the legal proceedings unfold, the case of Ashley Warren and the tragic death of Esther Martin highlights the ongoing debate surrounding dog ownership and public safety. The outcome of the trial may have significant implications for future legislation regarding dangerous dog breeds in the UK.
