In a dramatic court appearance, the owner of two XL Bully dogs that fatally mauled a grandmother described the pets as "loving, friendly, family dogs" that he never imagined could turn violent. Ashley Warren, 41, broke down in tears while giving evidence at Chelmsford Crown Court, where he is on trial for offences related to the death of Esther Martin, 68.
Tragic Incident in Jaywick Home
Esther Martin suffered what prosecutors described as "dozens and dozens" of horrific injuries during the attack in February 2024 at Warren's home in Jaywick, Essex. Among the most severe wounds was a bite through her arm that tore open an artery, leading to her death. Warren had left Martin in charge of the two XL Bullies, named Beauty and Bear, along with eight puppies of the same breed, while he traveled to London to film a music video.
Owner's Emotional Testimony
"I never seen this coming in a million years," Warren told the court, his voice trembling with emotion. "I would never have left Esther with the dogs if I thought they were dangerous. She knew the dogs. I never thought for one second this would happen. They were always loving dogs."
During his testimony, Warren became visibly distressed when a video of the dogs was played to jurors, requiring the court usher to pass him a box of tissues. The aspiring rapper, now living in Addlestone, Surrey, explained that he had asked Martin to help look after the animals while he went to "shoot a video and meet up with my lady friend."
Care Instructions and Financial Constraints
Warren detailed the care instructions he gave Martin, stating: "I didn't expect her to walk the dogs, I asked her if she would let the dogs out two or three times in the front garden so they could wee." He also mentioned showing her a broom to separate fighting puppies that were "putting pinholes" in each other.
The defendant addressed questions about why he hadn't complied with new legislation requiring XL Bully dogs to be neutered, muzzled, and leashed in public. The ban had come into force on February 1, 2024, just before the fatal attack. "I'm on PIP (benefits) - most of the times if I want something I have to save for it," Warren explained. "I can't just go and get it. I don't have a lot of money."
Legal Proceedings and Additional Charges
Warren has pleaded not guilty to being the owner of a dog named Bear that caused injury resulting in death while dangerously out of control in a private place. He also denies being in charge of a dog named Beauty under the same circumstances. Additionally, he faces a separate charge of having a bladed article without good reason or lawful authority at Clacton railway station on February 3, 2024.
When asked by defence barrister Allan Compton KC why he took the knife to London, Warren responded, referring to his music video project: "To shoot my scene."
Aftermath of the Attack
The court heard that police officers responding to the incident tasered and then shot both Beauty and Bear, refusing to enter the property due to safety concerns. Warren told jurors he had stopped walking the dogs in January 2024 because of the new legislation, saying: "I was so threatened I didn't want them to get put down I kept them in the house."
The trial continues as prosecutors and defence lawyers present further evidence in this tragic case that has raised significant questions about dangerous dog legislation and owner responsibility.
