A workman has been left psychologically scarred and says he 'hardly recognises himself' after a sudden and savage attack by an American bulldog while he was working in a client's kitchen.
The Vicious Attack in Kirkby
The incident occurred at an address in the Kirkby area of Liverpool at around 2pm on May 21 this year. Robert Gaskell was carrying out work in the kitchen of Demi Fitzpatrick's home when her dog, named Capone, burst into the room. Without warning, the animal leapt up and bit Mr Gaskell on the cheek and face.
At the time of the attack, Fitzpatrick was in another room trying on a dress. The court heard that while Capone was 'usually a friendly dog', the owner was aware she needed to secure him when a workman was present but failed to ensure adequate measures were in place.
Court Hearing and Emotional Sentencing
At Liverpool Magistrates' Court, Demi Fitzpatrick admitted one count of being the owner of a dangerously out of control dog causing injury. She was seen in tears during the hearing, wiping her eyes with a tissue.
Magistrates fined Fitzpatrick £120 and ordered her to pay £300 in compensation to the victim, plus £85 in court costs and a £48 victim surcharge. The most significant order, however, was for the destruction of Capone, though this can be appealed at the crown court.
Sentencing, panel chairman Lee McGaw stated: "We need to consider whether the dog does constitute a danger to public safety. We have to consider its temperament and past behaviour and whether you are a fit and proper person."
He continued, emphasising the failure of the owner: "You were aware that you needed to place him in a room out of the way when you had a workman in your home. But you did not ensure that those measures were adequate."
Lasting Impact on the Victim
The physical and psychological impact on Robert Gaskell has been profound. He stated he now 'feels like he's living on borrowed time' and has been left nervous about entering customers' homes as a direct result of the traumatic attack.
Despite a dog expert's suggestion that Capone could be managed with a muzzle or cage when visitors were present, the magistrates concluded Fitzpatrick was not a 'fit and proper person' to control the animal, leading to the destruction order.
The case highlights the severe consequences when pet owners fail to take responsible precautions, especially with powerful breeds, resulting in life-altering injuries for victims and the ultimate fate for the pet involved.
