A warrant has been issued for the arrest of Stephanie Watson, a 35-year-old woman from Lanark, after she failed to appear at Hamilton Sheriff Court on Tuesday. Watson faces allegations of engaging in sex acts with an XL Bully dog, with the incidents reported to have occurred between June and December 2024 at an address in Bellshill, Lanarkshire.
Court Proceedings and Warrant Issuance
Watson was expected to attend a brief hearing at Hamilton Sheriff Court but did not show up. Depute fiscal Sadia Bhatti informed the court that she was seeking a warrant for Watson's arrest, stating, "The accused is not present." Stephen McQuillan, Watson's defence lawyer, noted that she had not contacted him prior to the hearing. Sheriff John Spier subsequently granted the warrant.
At an earlier hearing, Depute fiscal Daniel Toner disclosed that there are statements and video footage to be examined. He described the evidence as "a screen-recording of an online video." Watson has not entered a plea to the allegation, which involves an alleged 'unnatural connection' with the dog.
Background and Bail Orders
The allegations came to light after members of the public reported clips circulating on social media to the police, prompting an investigation. Watson is also accused of committing the alleged offence while subject to four separate bail orders. The case highlights ongoing concerns about the misuse of social media to share illegal content involving animals.
The XL Bully breed has been a focus of legal attention in the UK, with recent regulations requiring owners to keep them on a lead and muzzled in public. However, this case involves distinct criminal charges unrelated to breed-specific legislation.
