XL-aggressor owner faces court over death of man attacked by dogs in Staffordshire

A man has appeared in court over the death of a man who was attacked by two large XL dogs near his home in Staffordshire a year ago.

Ian Price, 52, died in hospital from serious injuries in the village of Stonnall, Staffordshire, at about 3.15pm on September 14.

James Trimble-Pettit, 31, appeared at Cannock District Court today charged with two counts of possessing a dog that got out of control and caused death.

The court heard that two dogs were involved in the incident: a champagne-coloured XL female dog named Via and a white XL male dog named Ares.

One dog died after being immobilized, and the other died after being administered an injection by a vet.

Trimble-Pettit, of Fradley, Co Lichfield, appeared in court wearing a black suit and tie. He confirmed his name and address during questioning and said he would not plead guilty to the two charges.

District Judge Ian Barnes, who appeared in court by video link, said the offences were too serious for him to deal with.

He released Trimble-Pettit on the same bail conditions imposed by Staffordshire Police – he had to live and sleep at his address in Fradley, could not enter Stonnall and could not be in the company of any dog.

The public gallery in the courtroom was packed with Mr. Price’s friends and family.

Trimble-Pettit, who quickly left the courtroom after the 10-minute hearing, must appear at Stafford Crown Court on October 7.