Lee Ellis, 55, has appeared in court charged with manslaughter after a man who was bitten by a dog on a footpath died.
West Yorkshire Police were called to the old train line path off Blacker Lane in the Calder Grove area of Wakefield on Saturday afternoon, 15 August. James Judge, 55, was bitten by a dog and later died in hospital.
Charges and court appearance
Ellis has been charged with manslaughter and being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury resulting in death. He appeared at Bradford Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, 18 August.
Ellis was not asked to enter a plea, but his representative, Mr Fones, said he "will be taking the matter to trial". The court heard Ellis is a self-employed farrier who has lived in the area for 30 years.
Bail and next hearing
District Judge Mark Daley bailed Ellis until his next appearance at Leeds Crown Court on September 16, on condition he sleeps every night at his home address. Ellis, who wore a grey sweatshirt and tracksuit bottoms, wiped his eyes and nose with a tissue during the hearing.
Investigation ongoing
The dog believed to be responsible for Mr Judge's fatal injuries has been seized as part of the investigation and is being held in police kennels.
