Sophie Sheppard, 34, has been banned from owning dogs for five years after her Mastiff-wales/cross-wales/”>cross-Englandengland/”>cross/”>cross launched multiple attacks in england/south-west/Wiltshirewiltshire/”>Wiltshire.
Dog Attacks Spark Community Fear
Sheppard, from Akers Way, Moredon, pleaded guilty to three counts of being in control of a dog dangerously out of control and one count of common assault. The dog was seized and is set to be put down, pending an appeal.
Threats and Violence
- On March 30, Sheppard was caught shoplifting at Morrisons on Thames Avenue. When confronted, she untied her dog and threatened to set it on the store manager.
- On April 11, her dog lunged at another dog on Moredon Road, biting the dog’s owner and sparking a verbal abuse incident.
- Two weeks later, on April 26, the dog bit another dog on Elborough Road, injuring it.
- On May 3, the Mastiff-cross jumped a neighbour’s garden fence and mauled their cat to death.
Police Action and Court Ruling
Sheppard was arrested on May 8 after a public appeal. She must also complete up to 30 days of rehabilitation activities. PC Paul Croft from the Dogs team confirmed the local community was alarmed by the dog’s behaviour.
“Sheppard showed no inclination to train her dog or control it, instead verbally abusing victims and threatening to set it upon them. We’re pleased the courts have disqualified her from owning dogs for five years,” said PC Croft.
