A young child was brutally mauled and bitten four times on the arm by an XL Bully dog while its owner "did nothing to help", a court has heard. The shocking incident occurred at a residential property in Llandudno Junction, where the dog's aggressive behaviour led to severe injuries and subsequent legal proceedings.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing Details
At Caernarfon Crown Court on Tuesday, February 3, the defendants faced justice for their roles in the distressing event. Scott Gallagher, 59, of Walton Road, Llandudno Junction, was sentenced to a total of 28 months imprisonment. This comprised 22 months for owning a dog dangerously out of control causing injury, with an additional six months for child cruelty, to run consecutively.
His co-defendant, Katie Taylor, 40, of the same address, received an 18-month prison sentence for the dog offence and six months for child cruelty. However, her sentence was suspended for two years. She must also complete a 12-month mental health treatment programme and undertake 20 days of rehabilitation activity.
The Attack and Immediate Aftermath
During the attack, Gallagher was reportedly gripping the XL Bully, named Tyson, by its collar but released it, allowing the dog to clamp its jaws into the child's arm. In contrast, Taylor intervened by dragging the dog away, after which the injured youngster was rushed to a neighbour's home before paramedics were summoned.
The child was subsequently taken to hospital and underwent surgery the following day, where medical professionals cleaned and stitched the four wounds. The prosecution noted that Gallagher "did nothing to help" during the incident, while Taylor acted to mitigate the harm.
Legal Consequences and Animal Disposal
Both defendants pleaded guilty to charges of owning a dog dangerously out of control which caused injury, as well as child cruelty. In addition to the prison sentences, His Honour Timothy Petts ordered the destruction of both dogs involved: the XL Bully Tyson and a Pit Bull Terrier called Caesar. Furthermore, Gallagher and Taylor were banned from owning a dog for 15 years.
Defence Mitigations and Personal Circumstances
Tom McLoughlin, representing Gallagher, informed the court that his client feels "a genuine and real sense of remorse". Gallagher suffers from a physical disability following a lorry accident and had become dependent on morphine prescribed for his injuries. He has since been gradually weaned off the medication and is now on a less addictive alternative.
Catherine Elvin, representing Taylor, highlighted that her client had stepped in to assist during the attack, stating: "She jumped on Tyson, bit it and forced him to release his grip." Taylor is also described as being deeply sorry for what transpired, with the court acknowledging her efforts to intervene.
The attack, which took place in 2024, underscores ongoing concerns about dangerous dog breeds and owner responsibility. This case serves as a stark reminder of the legal and moral obligations pet owners have to ensure public safety, particularly where children are involved.
